It is important to recognise that AI builds on existing knowledge and cultural values. Since the first waves of AI in the 20^th century, the humanities have played a crucial role in our understanding and development of AI. Within the humanities at Leiden University, AI is both a means and an end, linked to our core themes: Languages and Cultures of the World, Constructing Heritage and Human AI.

We aim to achieve a better understanding of AI, especially Generative AI based on large language models. These models display impressive but sometimes also error-prone behaviour. Insights from cognitive science, linguistics and psycholinguistics help us to better comprehend how they work and how we can use them responsibly. Generative AI also offers opportunities as an aid for linguistic research, for example in formulating and testing hypotheses.

At Leiden University we also focus on applications for societal challenges, such as language models for dementia care, second language acquisition and inclusive chatbots. The arts make a contribution by outlining future scenarios and clarifying societal issues for a wide audience. Leiden historians use AI to analyse large text collections and to make heritage collections more accessible. Thanks to this unique combination of expertise, Leiden is the ideal place for computer linguistics and AI in the humanities.

At the Humanities Hub, researchers can immerse themselves in the world of Digital Humanities, while students get the opportunity to develop their digital and media skills within the field of the humanities. The lab spaces of LUCDH, the Faculty of Humanities, and Journalism and New Media provide modern digital infrastructure and extensive support researchers and students.