Blog series calls for transparency and accountability in AI development
WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 12, 2025) – The McCain Institute at Arizona State University (ASU) today launched an artificial intelligence (AI) blog series, “Psybernomics,” authored by the McCain Institute’s American Democracy & Technology Policy Translation Fellow Hallie Stern. The series debuts with three blog posts that touch on humanity’s obligation to develop new technology ethically:
- Latent Human Potential and the Role of AI in Society
- From Enigma to AI: Decoding Patterns That Shape our World
- The Ethics of Optimization: What Do We Lose When AI Prioritizes Efficiency?
“As AI becomes more embedded in our daily lives, we must ensure that it serves humanity rather than exploits it. ‘Psybernomics’ explores the ethical crossroads of artificial intelligence—how we balance innovation with accountability, efficiency with fairness, and power with responsibility. The goal is to spark a much-needed conversation about how AI can strengthen, rather than undermine, democracy,” said Stern.
Stern specializes in information and computational social science, focusing on how human interactions with emerging technologies shape and influence global societal dynamics. Her work aims to address challenges to democratic stability while advancing effective technological solutions that enhance economic well-being. She has presented her research at venues such as the Nobel Prize Summit, UNGA, Harvard University, and DefCon, covering topics related to AI and geoeconomics, election integrity, algorithmic bias, information threats, and data security.
The “Psybernomics,” blog series is part of the McCain Institute’s larger dedication to illuminating the relationship between digital advances and the ongoing fight for democracy, as outlined in the McCain Institute’s recently published report, “Defending American Democracy in the Digital Age,” and was discussed in the context of how disinformation online impacts trust in core institutions at the September 2024 report launch event.
To read the blogs, click HERE.
Learn more about the McCain Institute’s American Democracy & Technology Policy Translation Fellowship HERE.
About the McCain Institute at Arizona State University
The McCain Institute is a nonpartisan organization inspired by Senator John McCain and his family’s dedication to public service. We are part of Arizona State University and based in Washington, D.C. Our programs defend democracy, advance human rights and freedom, and empower character-driven leaders. Our unique power to convene leaders across the global political spectrum enables us to make a real impact on the world’s most pressing challenges. Our goal is action, not talk, and like Senator McCain, we are fighting to create a free, safe, and just world for all.
About Arizona State University
Arizona State University has developed a new model for the American research university, creating an institution that is committed to access, excellence and impact. ASU measures itself by those it includes, not by those it excludes. As the prototype for a New American University, ASU pursues research that contributes to the public good, and ASU assumes major responsibility for the economic, social and cultural vitality of the communities that surround it.
