Causal Models, Biology, Generative AI & RL || Robert Ness || Causal Bandits Ep. 011 (2024)
Mar 4, 2024
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Robert Ness discusses the broad perspective on causal inference encompassing graphical models, Bayesian inference, reinforcement learning, generative AI, and cognitive science. The conversation explores the challenges and importance of causal inference in AI models for understanding complex scenarios and human decision-making processes, with a focus on bridging computational models with human reasoning for Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). Delve into the integration of causality in identifying latent representations in generative AI for image manipulation, emphasizing the importance of understanding causal relationships in creating realistic images.
Dr. Robert Ness emphasizes the importance of creating practical causal solutions in biological research beyond learning structures.
Designing workflows for experimental design and interpreting causal graphs are crucial for actionable insights in biology.
Incorporating causal models in reinforcement learning enhances efficiency, credit assignment, and decision-making processes.
Deep dives
Transition from Economics to Causal Inference
Dr. Robert Ness discusses his journey from studying economics to focusing on statistics and causal inference, driven by a natural aptitude for statistics and an interest in modeling real-world problems. His transition to systems biology during his PhD was influenced by the desire to work on complex and dynamic systems with grounding in natural sciences.
Challenges in Applying Causal Discovery Algorithms
Dr. Robert Ness highlights the challenges faced in applying causal discovery algorithms to biological data, emphasizing the importance of creating practical solutions that address specific needs in laboratory settings beyond just learning causal structures. He delves into the complexity of designing workflows for experimental design and interpreting causal graphs for actionable insights in biological research.
Bayesian Reasoning and Causal Decision Making
Dr. Robert Ness explores the intersection of Bayesian reasoning and causal decision making in fields like causal reinforcement learning, emphasizing the importance of incorporating causal models to enhance sample efficiency, credit assignment, and decision-making processes. He underlines the potential of causal inference to optimize learning in high-dimensional settings and improve decision-making based on causal insights.
Cairo Library: Simplifying Causal Inference in Machine Learning
Cairo is praised for addressing challenges in probabilistic machine learning, specifically in handling deterministic settings within causal models. By abstracting complex causal inference concepts, the library aims to streamline the inference process for data scientists and causal reasoners. Cairo's approach aligns causal uncertainty with probabilistic modeling, offering a bridge for those familiar with Bayesian approaches. Its potential impact is highlighted for aiding in counterfactual reasoning and enhancing generative AI capabilities through causal representations.
Causal Inference in Language Models: Unveiling Model Behavior through Causal Theory
Delving into the realm of large language models, the discussion centers on infusing causal understanding into model behavior. The quest to ensure reliable and causally grounded responses from models like GPT involves leveraging level three causal assumptions. Empirical testing has shown these models can handle causal queries, yet combating hallucinations remains a challenge. Explorations include embedding causal verification mechanisms within model architecture to fortify causal reasoning and ensure factual accuracy in generative outputs.
Video version available on YouTube Recorded on Nov 12, 2023 in Undisclosed location, Undisclosed location
From Systems Biology to Causality
Robert always loved statistics.
He went to study systems biology, driven by his desire to model natural systems.
His perspective on causal inference encompasses graphical models, Bayesian inference, reinforcement learning, generative AI and cognitive science.
It allows him to think broadly about the problems we encounter in modern AI research.
Is the reward enough and what's the next big thing in causal (generative) AI?
Let's see!
About The Guest Robert Osazuwa Ness is a Senior Researcher at Microsoft Research. He explores how to combine causal discovery, causal inference, deep probabilistic modeling, and programming languages in search of new capabilities for AI systems.