The Good Robot podcast: the role of designers in AI ethics with Tomasz Hollanek

2026-02-26 · Source: ΑΙhub · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning · Depth: Intermediate, extended

Summary

The Good Robot podcast, hosted by Eleanor Drage and Kerry McInerney, features Tomasz Hollanek, a researcher at the Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence at the University of Cambridge, discussing the central role of design in AI ethics. Hollanek argues that design choices embed social and political values into AI systems, often leading to marginalization or discrimination. The conversation, recorded in February 2026, explores critical design approaches to human-AI interaction, the importance of AI literacy, and the responsibilities of journalists in reporting on AI. It also reflects on how critical design can challenge existing power dynamics to foster more just and inclusive human-AI interactions, emphasizing the need for designers to develop "epistemic humility" and engage with affected communities.

Key takeaway

For AI Ethicists and Product Designers aiming to build more responsible AI, prioritize integrating critical design principles from the outset. Focus on fostering "cognitive glitching" and user awareness, rather than solely frictionless experiences, to challenge embedded biases and power dynamics. Engage diverse stakeholders and develop epistemic humility to ensure AI systems are inclusive and ethically sound, moving beyond mere compliance to genuine transformative change.

Key insights

Design is central to AI ethics, embedding values and requiring critical approaches for just human-AI interaction.

Principles

• Good technology is critical and incites critique.
• Design should be seen as a form of compromise.
• Epistemic humility is crucial for designers.

Method

Critical design involves questioning established power dynamics, making users think through "cognitive glitching," and engaging affected communities in design processes to foster inclusive AI systems.

In practice

• Consider recurring consent mechanisms for AI systems.
• Decenter technology in AI reporting, focusing on human aspects.
• Utilize critical design toolkits that gather people, not just tools.

Topics

• AI Ethics
• Critical Design
• Human-AI Interaction
• AI Literacy
• Responsible AI Reporting

Best for: AI Ethicist, Product Designer, AI Researcher

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by ΑΙhub.