Artificial Intelligence and Philosophy

Thinking critically about intelligent systems and their impact

Artificial intelligence and philosophy examines how intelligent systems work, what they can and cannot do and how they should be used. This research area brings philosophical analysis to questions about reasoning, knowledge, ethics and responsibility in a world shaped by algorithms and data. At UB, research in artificial intelligence and philosophy connects foundational philosophical thinking with real-world applications in technology, science and society.

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Great for students interested in artificial intelligence, computer science, data science, ethics, cognitive science, or the social impact of technology.

Big questions artificial intelligence and philosophy helps answer

Research in this area explores questions such as:

  • What does it mean for a system to be intelligent?
  • Can machines reason, understand or make decisions?
  • How should artificial intelligence be designed and governed?
  • Who is responsible when automated systems cause harm?
  • How do algorithms shape knowledge, power and social life?

These questions are central to responsible innovation and public trust in technology.

How artificial intelligence and philosophy research works

This research combines philosophical reasoning with interdisciplinary collaboration. Scholars analyze concepts such as intelligence, agency and explanation, while engaging with technical systems and real-world cases.

Research approaches may include:

  • Conceptual analysis of intelligence and computation
  • Ethical evaluation of AI systems and policies
  • Collaboration with computer scientists and data researchers
  • Study of decision-making, bias and accountability in algorithms

Key areas of focus

Artificial intelligence and philosophy research at UB often addresses:

  • Ethics of artificial intelligence and automation
  • Knowledge representation and reasoning
  • Decision-making and algorithmic fairness
  • Human and machine interaction
  • The social and political impact of AI

Together, these areas help guide how intelligent technologies are developed and used.

Related philosophy research areas

Applied Ontology, Formal Methods: Logic, Decision Theory and Game Theory, Ethics and Applied Ethics, Moral Psychology and Social Epistemology, Philosophy of Mind and Cognitive Science, Philosophy of Science, Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Research faculty

John Beverley
Ryan Muldoon
Alexandra Oprea
Barry Smith
Daniel Stephens

Get involved

Students can explore artificial intelligence and philosophy through faculty-mentored research, interdisciplinary projects and independent study that bridge philosophy and technology.

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