Walter Scheirer

Scheirer interrogates the complex relationship between digital fakery and cultural perception, illustrating how counterfeit digital artifacts shape societal understanding. His work seamlessly combines technical research in artificial intelligence and computer vision with cultural criticism and the digital humanities. This interdisciplinary approach is evident in his book, "A History of Fake Things on the Internet", which explores the broader implications of digital fakery, examining the motivations behind creating counterfeit content and its impact on society beyond mere detection. Through his analytical style, Scheirer emphasizes the interplay between technological advancement and cultural narratives.\n\nHis research delves into recognition problems related to computer vision and machine learning, focusing on areas such as open set recognition and extreme value theory models for visual recognition. This exploration extends into the realm of human biometrics and stylometry, enriching the field with methods that address both technical challenges and cultural critiques. The author’s work is particularly relevant to those interested in the intersection of AI technology and the humanities, offering insights that are crucial for understanding the evolving digital landscape.\n\nAs a faculty member at the University of Notre Dame, Scheirer benefits from an interdisciplinary environment that supports his dual focus on technology and cultural impact. His position as the Dennis O. Doughty Collegiate Professor highlights his recognition within the academic community, while his contributions continue to inspire both scholars and practitioners seeking to navigate the complexities of digital identity and authenticity. This bio underscores Scheirer’s role as a thought leader who not only addresses technical issues but also engages with the societal dimensions of digital evolution.