What AI can teach us about working with uncertainty | Ruth Flaherty | TEDxUniversity of Suffolk

A talk by Dr Ruth Flaherty, Senior Lecturer in Law at the University of Suffolk, on working with uncertainty. It uses AI as an example: rather than waiting for certainty, AI draws on what it knows, acts, learns from feedback and moves forward, even though it can make mistakes. The talk argues that people and organisations facing change can adopt a similar mindset. Drawing on critical-creative theory and legal expertise, it challenges the idea that perfect information is needed before acting, and presents knowledge as something built through action, reflection and continuous learning. It was given at a TEDx event independently organised by a local community.

• Uncertainty can stop action in business, education and everyday life
• AI responds, learns from feedback and adapts without full certainty
• Knowledge is built through action, reflection and continuous learning
• Applies to innovation and change in Suffolk's communities and SMEs

Uncertainty often stops us from taking action, whether in business, education, or everyday life. This talk explores an unexpected lesson from AI: it doesn’t wait for certainty before responding. It draws on what it knows, acts, learns from feedback, and moves forward. While AI can make mistakes, its willingness to adapt offers a valuable mindset for people and organisations facing change. Drawing on critical-creative theory and legal expertise, this talk challenges the belief that we need perfect information before acting. Instead, it shows how knowledge is built through action, reflection, and continuous learning. With Suffolk’s strong communities, growing creative industries, and thriving education sector, embracing this approach can help unlock innovation, confidence, and positive change. The future belongs to those willing to take the next step—even without all the answers. Dr Ruth Flaherty is a Senior Lecturer in Law at the University of Suffolk, where she has spent over six years teaching, researching, and working with local communities. A finalist for Oxford University Press Law Teacher of the Year 2024 and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, she combines academic expertise with practical impact. Her ESRC-funded PhD explored creativity, ownership, and knowledge in digital spaces, focusing on the intersection of law, technology, and human behaviour. Ruth has published internationally and contributed to government consultations on AI, innovation, and creativity. She has also led initiatives supporting Suffolk's SMEs and innovators, helping them navigate uncertainty and growth. Her work brings together law, technology, creativity, and decision-making to offer practical insights for positive change. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx