Talks and shows

Are you smarter than AI?

How good are you at maths puzzles? Better than artifical intelligence?

Image credit: Wikimedia Commons

Puzzle-solving is an example of the natural world's abilities in creativity and ingenuity. From the simple human pleasure of a Sunday cryptic crossword to the animals that express their own incredible skills in problem-solving. But soon, will Artificial Intelligence become as good at, or overtaking, people at solving and setting puzzles?

Join New Scientist puzzle editor Rob Eastaway for a challenging and fun hour of exploration as he poses some of his favourite puzzles from the magazine’s weekly column. It will be a case of people vs machine as it won't only be the people in the audience put to the test. We'll be discovering how well (or badly!) ChatGPT copes with puzzling challenges.

ChatGPT is everywhere in the media at the moment, from completing University essays, writing work emails, to attempting screen plays. But when it comes to the not-so-simple puzzle, who will come out on top – people or the machines?

Copies of Rob's latest book ‘Headscratchers: The New Scientist Puzzle Book' is available to purchase after the event.

This event is particularly suitable for ages 13+. As with all our family theatre talks, this event is designed to be enjoyed by adults and children together. All young people under the age of 13 need to be accompanied by a paying adult and those aged 4 and above need a ticket to attend.

Timing

The doors will open at approximately 5.30pm, with a prompt start at 6.00pm.

Latecomers will be admitted into the gallery.

About Rob Eastaway

Rob Eastaway smiling and facing the camera
Rob Eastaway

Rob Eastaway is an author and speaker whose books include the bestselling Why Do Buses Come In Threes? and  Maths for Mums and Dads.



Rob is the Director of Maths Inspiration, a national programme of theatre-based lectures for teenagers. He regularly appears on BBC Radio 4's More or Less programme, and his puzzles can sometimes be heard on the Today programme.



In 2016 Rob was awarded the Zeeman Medal for excellence in the communication of maths to the general public.

Covid guidelines

Face masks are no longer mandatory and wearing one in our Theatre and at other Ri events is at your discretion, however please do not attend the Ri if you are displaying Covid symptoms or, if you have tested, the result remains positive. Thank you for respecting other people and their choices, and for helping us keep all of our visitors and staff safe and well.

Accessibility

The event will take place on the first floor and there is step-free access from the street via lift.

The closest underground station is Green Park, which is step-free.

There is space at floor level in the theatre for wheelchair users.

Seating is usually unreserved for our events. If you and your group require seating reservations, please do let us know by emailing us at events@ri.ac.uk, and we’ll be more than happy to help.

Carers can receive a free ticket to an event by emailing events@ri.ac.uk.

Our theatre is equipped with an Audio Induction Loop. 

Event terms and conditions