85: Artificial Intelligence In Urban Design: Ethical Tensions and Speculative Practices

This paper investigates the dual role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in contemporary urban planning, exploring its capacity for (1) innovation alongside (2) ethical challenges. The study specifically focuses on the AAVSP 2024 workshop, where AI-driven generative design tools were tested through speculative proposals for the Pinheiros River region in São Paulo. The methodology combines literature review, case study analysis, and observational data from participants and tutors. Preliminary results highlight AI’s potential in automating processes, generating new visual narratives, and enabling participatory modeling. Nevertheless, issues such as algorithmic bias, opacity, and detachment from subjective urban experiences emerge as central concerns. The discussion emphasizes the need for inclusive datasets, transparent design logic, and participatory frameworks. The paper contributes to debates on human–AI collaboration and indicates paths toward more just and imaginative urban futures.