We are living in a world of rapid development of AI, whether you like it or not. Instead of being dictated by data, or being intimidated by AI, we should learn to tame AI for a better world, just like our ancestors learned how to utilize hydraulic power which would otherwise be devastating to the survival of human society. We shall use big data not only for a more productive economy and more prosperous society, but also for a fair and just community. AI is very good at processing big data, to identity patterns in big data, for example. However, data in society and economy is not derived from vacuum, but from concrete cultural, social and political context. Without a deep understanding of society and economy, we would not be able to make full use of data for a better human society. The Quantitative Social Analysis (QSA) program offered by the Division of Social Science is geared toward preparing students for this rapidly changing environment. The interdisciplinary nature of our program, with faculty from a wide range of social science backgrounds all using cutting edge quantitative analysis technology to investigate important issues of the day, will prepare students for a world in which diverse perspectives are more valuable than ever. The program offers diverse courses which aim to help students to learn necessary techniques of quantitative analysis, as well as the social and political world behind data. We are trying very hard to embed AI into QSA courses and research projects for QSA students. The training of QSA aims to provide students with a skill set that will make them leaders in domains of turning quantitative data into useful insights about humanity. We urge you to explore new domains to apply skills of quantitative analysis, as well as new ways to generate data. This is a challenging journey, but you are not alone. Faculties of QSA and other programs in SHSS are ready to provide advice and suggestions whenever you need them. We take your problems as ours and your achievements our common pride. As QSA director, I am excited to meet all the new and returning students. Let’s work together to build a true community of QSA, a community of knowledge, life, and a spirit to explore frontiers. Professor Wenkai HE QSA Program Director 3
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