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Patrick Lin
Director of the Ethics + Emerging Sciences Group (Cal Poly)
Professional Background
Patrick Lin is a distinguished philosopher and scholar in the field of technology and ethics, with a profound commitment to the discourse surrounding artificial intelligence, robotics, and national security. Over the years, he has contributed his expertise through numerous prestigious organizations and projects aimed at advancing understanding and responsible deployment of emerging technologies. Currently, he holds a prominent position as a Fellow in Space Policy at the Aurelia Institute, where he engages in influential work that addresses the ethical implications and policy directions related to space technology and exploration.
Lin's career has been marked by significant roles, including his past memberships on the US National Space Council's Users' Advisory Group at NASA and the Karel Čapek Center for Values in Science and Technology in the Czech Republic. His participation in these esteemed groups showcases his dedication to fostering a responsible, ethical landscape in the rapidly-evolving interface between technology and society.
Before his current role, Lin made considerable contributions as a Professor in the Philosophy Department at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, as well as the Director of the Ethics + Emerging Sciences Group. His academic work laid a solid foundation for his later endeavors in ensuring that ethical considerations are integrated into the development and application of technology. In addition to his professorial duties, he has served as a Visiting Associate Professor at Stanford University, School of Engineering, where his influence on the next generation of engineers and technologists has been deeply impactful.
Education and Achievements
Patrick Lin's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkeley, where he likely honed his analytical skills and developed a passion for philosophy. He continued this trajectory by pursuing a Ph.D. at UC Santa Barbara, which equipped him with advanced knowledge and a robust framework for examining complex issues at the intersection of technology, ethics, and society.
Throughout his career, Lin has been involved with numerous organizations that highlight his expertise, ranging from his role in the Global Future Council on AI and Robotics at the World Economic Forum to a variety of influential fellowships and advisory capacities. He has participated in a significant number of projects aimed at developing ethical guidelines for robotics, artificial intelligence, and autonomy, helping shape policies that affect not only technological innovation but also societal well-being.
His past role on the Task Force on AI and National Security at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) underscores his focus on the implications of technological advancements for national security and ethical governance. Moreover, Lin has been recognized for his insights into cybersecurity as a fellow at New America and has provided consultation on ethical issues relevant to autonomous technologies for UNIDIR.
Notable Contributions and Initiatives
Patrick Lin’s contributions to the field of ethics in technology extend beyond academia; he has taken on roles that allow him to influence policy and approach towards emerging technologies on a global scale. As an Ethics Consultant for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) on the Urban Reconnaissance through Supervised Autonomy (URSA) project, he worked diligently to ensure that ethical considerations guide the development of military technologies. His experience as an Ethics Fellow at the US Naval Academy further highlights his dedication to ensuring that moral reasoning remains central in considerations of technological advancements in defense.
Additionally, Lin's involvement as a Fulbright Specialist at the Center for Arctic Policy Studies at the University of Iceland showcases his commitment to global cooperation and understanding of how technology shapes societal interactions worldwide. His ongoing contributions to the 100 Year Study on AI at Stanford’s Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence illustrate his belief in the importance of foresight and ethical evaluation in the development of transformative technologies.
Patrick Lin's publication and speaking engagements amplify his influence in the field, where he discusses the pressing ethical questions surrounding emerging technologies. His participation as an Expert Group Member and Consultant for the Autonomous Technologies at UNIDIR reflects his global perspective and willingness to address pertinent issues that affect international peace and security through the lens of technology.
In summary, Patrick Lin’s extensive academic background combined with a rich tapestry of professional experiences allows him to approach the field of technology ethics with depth and insight. His career trajectory demonstrates his unwavering commitment to shaping an ethical framework for the future of technology in society. With his wealth of knowledge and experience, Lin continues to be a vital voice in the ongoing discourse about the responsible use of technology, making him a key figure in shaping the policies and ethical considerations that will guide us into the future.