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Peter Asaro
Associate Professor at The New School
Professional Background
Peter Asaro is a distinguished philosopher of technology and an Associate Professor at the School of Media Studies at The New School. With an impressive academic and professional history, his work often intersects the realms of philosophy, media studies, and computer science. As the Director of the Graduate Media Studies Program, he is responsible for shaping and advancing the curriculum, fostering a critical understanding of technology within media contexts.
His career is adorned with impactful roles that reflect his dedication to the philosophical exploration of technology's implications on society. Asaro previously held the position of Associate Professor at The New School, where he cultivated a vibrant learning environment dedicated to critical discourse on technology and its societal consequences. He also played a pivotal role as an Affiliate Scholar at the Center for Internet and Society at Stanford Law School, contributing to research and discussions around the ethical dimensions of emerging technological advancements.
In addition to these academic positions, Asaro has dedicated his expertise to societal advocacy. He served as the Spokesperson and Steering Committee Member at the Campaign to Stop Killer Robots, where he passionately advocated for ethical considerations and regulations regarding autonomous weapon systems. This commitment to responsible technological development is a recurring theme throughout his career.
Education and Achievements
Peter Asaro's educational journey is equally impressive. He studied a wide array of subjects that have equipped him with a rich interdisciplinary perspective. He holds a PhD, MCS, and MA in Philosophy and Computer Science from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, where he rigorously examined the philosophical questions surrounding technology and its multifaceted impacts on society. He also earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Computer Science from Illinois Wesleyan University, laying the groundwork for his dual interests in these crucial fields.
Prior to his post-graduate studies, Asaro attended Elk Grove High School and the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, where early exposure to philosophical inquiry and scientific rigor sparked his enduring passion for academic exploration.
Throughout his career, Asaro has held numerous research fellowships and positions, enhancing his academic profile and contributing to various prestigious institutions. He has served as a Research Fellow at Rutgers University, Umea University, and the Austrian Academy of Sciences, as well as a Research Scientist at Iguana Robotics, Inc. These experiences have allowed him to engage in cutting-edge research and foster collaborations across disciplines.
Drawing on these experiences, Asaro has written extensively, contributing to a richer understanding of philosophy's role in technology. His research as a Visiting Fellow at the Center for Information Technology Policy at Princeton University further solidified his reputation as a leading thinker in technology ethics and policy.
Achievements
Asaro's commitment to philosophical inquiry and technological ethics has earned him recognition among peers and institutions committed to the responsible advancement of technology. His prolific contributions span academia, advocacy, and research, making him a valued voice in discussions about the societal implications of technological advancement.
In addition to his role as Vice-Chair at the International Committee for Robot Arms Control (ICRAC), which works towards international norms against autonomous weapons, he is actively engaged in shaping and critiquing the narrative surrounding technology and its societal roles. His involvement in these initiatives demonstrates his unwavering commitment to fostering an ethical discourse around technology's future.
Asaro's dedication to academia and societal progress, coupled with his comprehensive educational background, positions him as a leading figure in the philosophical exploration of technology. His work encourages critical reflection on how emerging technologies not only transform our societies but also dictate ethical and moral considerations in their proliferation and use.