Fariba Karimi (Graz University of Technology), “Complexity Science for Societal Good”

Social inequalities — structured and recurrent patterns of unequal distribution of wealth, opportunities, and rewards — are on the rise, and quick-fix, top-down approaches are failing. Structural inequality is one of the important manifestations of social inequalities in which institutions, policies, and societies create systems of privilege that are structural barriers to equality and inclusiveness. Structural inequalities emerge and evolve in complex multi-dimensional social networks. With the rise of artificial intelligence and algorithms in decision-making processes, such inequalities are being reinforced and exacerbated in a non-linear, complex manner that is difficult to comprehend and tackle. To address and mitigate such timely issues, we need a complexity science approach and interdisciplinary teams more than ever.