SciLux podcast – Carlos Vega on Data Ethics

29 October 2024

Data Is Not Enough

With the ever-growing presence of generative AI and the vast amounts of data available online, grey areas and ethical dilemmas are emerging. Dr Carlos Vega explores the practical challenges of data collection, processing and visualisation, particularly in the context of digital health.

Carlos Vega is a research engineer in Digital Health at the Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) and a Adjunct Lecturer in Applied Philosophy of Science and Data Ethics at the Faculty of Science, Technology and Medicine (FSTM) of the University of Luxembourg. In 2024, he won third place in the Luxembourg Science Writing Competition organised by science.lu for his article “The weakness of AI and science – explained with an omelet”.

Listen to Dr Carlos Vega to better understand the ethical landscape of data usage, the implications of generative AI and the grey areas surrounding data consent.

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From Miniskirts to Cookie Banners

In his research work and in his courses, Dr Vega explores the various stages of data science, from data collection to visualisation. Dr. Vega highlights the potential pitfalls at each stage, emphasising the importance of understanding the origins and quality of data. He stresses that data is merely a ‘shadow of reality,’ inherently inaccurate, and fraught with potential errors that scientists must navigate carefully.

When it comes to data usage, ethical considerations must of course be considered. Dr Vega underscores the necessity for data subjects to have control over their data. In his lectures, he often draws a parallel with historical fights for personal rights, such as the right to wear trousers or miniskirts.

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