Libraries Commission
At the event, mathematician, writer and National Prize for Exact Sciences winner Eric Goles spoke, analyzing the impact of artificial intelligence and the fundamental role of reading.
In the context of International Book and Copyright Day, which is commemorated this Thursday, April 23, the Library Commission (CABID) of the Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities (CRUCH), organized the discussion “From reader to writer: The intellectual journey of Eric Goles”, an event that invited the university community to reflect on the act of reading, literary creation and ethics in access to information.
The rector of the Catholic University of Temuco, Marcela Momberg, who is in charge of the Commission, highlighted the importance of the book that “remains essential” and of university libraries, which “fulfill a role that I consider to be fundamental and key, they open the way to knowledge, support research and become spaces for meeting and community.».
Rector Momberg also emphasized the need to balance new technological challenges with an open ethic of knowledge. "Today, I believe we are also renewing our commitment to those who believe that respect for intellectual property and access to knowledge must be open, but always responsible," she stated.
Eric Goles: Literature, science and artificial intelligence
The event featured the outstanding participation of mathematician, writer and National Prize for Exact Sciences, Eric Goles, who shared his personal journey, from his first readings to his current role as an author and creator.
Goles recounted how reading was his refuge during his childhood in Antofagasta, especially given a chronic allergy that confined him to his home. In that environment, the paperback novels and books he found shaped his imagination. Over time, he developed two fundamental languages that have guided his life: Spanish and mathematics, which, he says, allow him to "create worlds.".
Regarding his transition to writing, the academic emphasized the importance of finding his own voice, moving away from imitations to adopt an honest and personal style, present in his literary works and in his upcoming memoirs, titled "The Second Principle".
Reflections on Artificial Intelligence
One of the central points of the expert's talk was his view on artificial intelligence (AI). Goles maintained a pragmatic stance, considering it a tool that "is here to stay" and that he himself uses in his scientific and literary work.
However, the academic emphasized the importance of maintaining a critical perspective on AI tools, urging young people not to lose their capacity for discernment. "The dialogue with these programs must be one of questioning, but not of distrust. From doubt, Cartesian doubt," he noted.
Finally, the author addressed concerns about education in Chile, noting that the education system requires more resources and greater appreciation for teachers' enthusiasm. He also acknowledged the work of librarians, highlighting their transformative impact: "A small library—I'm thinking not of universities, but of a small library in a neighborhood—can be the turning point that changes a person's life. And even if it's just for 10 girls and 10 young people, that's more than enough.".
At the close of the talk, Pedro Robles, Director of Systems at the Catholic University of the North and coordinator of the communications subcommittee of CABID, thanked Eric Goles for his willingness and the high turnout for the event.
Watch the full conversation HERE
Text: CRUCH Communications.
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