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From Cuneiform to ChatGPT: On Potentials and Pitfalls of Language Technology as a Tool in Cultural Heritage.
8 Dec 2025
Within the LMU Munich’s Digital Heritage Research Colloquium Public Lectures Series
As part of the Digital Heritage Research Colloquium, Dr. Michael Hedderich from LMU Munich will present a lecture titled “From Cuneiform to ChatGPT: On Potentials and Pitfalls of Language Technology as a Tool in Cultural Heritage.”
Abstract:
Digitalization is already transforming archaeology and cultural heritage research, but the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) could promise the next major shift. Large language models such as ChatGPT offer powerful tools for analyzing large amounts of textual data. Yet these same systems are notoriously difficult to evaluate and control: they may fabricate information or respond highly inconsistently. This talk explores both sides: the potential applications of AI in archaeology and cultural heritage, and the critical challenges of using text-based AI as a scientific tool. I will present work on processing cuneiform tablets and analyzing textual archives with text-processing AI; and reflect on the broader risks, challenges, and potentials that accompany AI-driven research.
The lecture takes place on Thursday, 11 December 2025, at 18:00 c.t., in Lecture Hall A119, LMU Main Building, Geschwister-Scholl-Platz 1.
Flyer Download: Dr Hedderich Public Lecture (PNG, 8,494 KB)