What was once referred to as ‘science fiction’ just a few years ago has seamlessly become an integral part of our daily lives, and it pervades every aspect of our existence. The human condition, driven by the vita activa, as described by Hannah Arendt, which inundates us with needs, now finds itself exposed to a technology that blurs the line between human and non-human. In the words of Alan Turing, a machine attains intelligence when we can no longer distinguish it from a person. This scenario is becoming increasingly more common in a plethora of assistance systems, computer applications, and a myriad of objects we rely on in our daily routines.

So, what is anthropologists’ take on the technological revolution of artificial intelligence? How will AI reshape our research methods, potentially leaving a significant impact on ethnography? What can we learn, and what should we retain in our professional practices as anthropologists? Have anthropology practitioners already initiated the process of adaptation to this new paradigm?

At the 10th AIBR International Conference of Anthropology we aim to explore these intriguing questions, guided by the concept of “Anthropological Intelligence.” Although it was originally coined to refer to the collaboration of Anthropology with military intelligence agencies, this term is now being used as our discipline’s response to the impending technological wave. British anthropologist and journalist Gillian Tett uses the term to refer to anthropologists’ capacity for in-depth analysis, akin to the thick description popularized by scholars such as Gilbert Ryle and Clifford Geertz.

Anthropological Intelligence is not only an exciting topic, but it also offers numerous avenues for profound scientific discussions. It is a special topic for a special occasion, since 2024 marks the tenth edition milestone of the AIBR Conference, following the exceptional 2023 conference in Mexico City.

On this tenth-year anniversary, we are thrilled to return to where it all began in 2015, in Madrid, Spain. We have chosen a remarkable venue for this occasion, the School of Geography and History at the Complutense University of Madrid, which will host and co-organize this forthcoming AIBR meeting.

We cordially invite you to join us in celebrating the 10th AIBR International Conference and continue the journey of exploration and celebration of Anthropology as the discipline of humankind.