About
The name Human Signature stands for intrinsically motivated, critical, and creative individuals in the age of AI.
First hand, I have witnessed the (r)evolution of intelligent automation. Through my work with leading experts in AI, robotics, and behavioral science, while engaging with the sectors energy, defense and space, the philosophical question: “What about our human agency?” led me to pursue my PhD in 2018.
The research question is: Can we still think critically and creatively in a world of ubiquitous AI?
The answer is “Yes”.
Drawing on (Post-) phenomenology and the process philosophy of Alfred North Whitehead, I redefine critical and creative thinking as intentional acts that emerge within our interaction with the world, including ourselves and AI:
“The conscious, inclusive exploration of a perceived discrepancy between what one believes should be the case and what is the case, and the resolution of this experience through critical-analytical and intuitive means.”
Whitehead’s process theory invites us to understand reality as made up of experiencing entities that are constantly responding to their situation. Together with our ability to think critically, this helps us to make within a given context the right decisions. Because of this, responsibility lies with each person.
I was trained in competitive chess from an early age and studied film dramaturgy and philosophy. Over time, these diverse paths converged both professionally and academically, bridging the gap between analytical thinking and the perceptive human.
In 2016, during a three-month stay in a yurt in Mongolia, I supported the business development of a local horseback riding company. I learned that even under harsh conditions and with minimal resources, it is possible to sustain a vision and the motivation to realize it. This experience also showed me how stepping outside familiar contexts can give a clearer sense of what one is working toward:
“reculer pour mieux sauter”… (retreat to jump further).
With Dutch-Polish roots, I eventually found my grounding in the Azores. Here, I worked on my research while also serving the regional government as an innovation advisor and coaching deep-tech startups in securing EIC funding.
Ultra-trail running, open-water swimming, horse riding, sailing and karate are practices through which I push my physical and mental limits. My training as a traditional Thai massage therapist, combined with my PhD research and professional work, reflects my exploration of the connection between body and mind. I consistently align my life and personal development with the principles I teach and stand for.
For my professional accomplishments, please visit my LinkedIn.
My name is Ida Rust.
