A photo of a mountain lake with turquoise water surrounded by rocky mountains, some covered in snow, under a cloudy sky.

My main areas of research span the Philosophy and Ethics of Technology, Normative Ethics

Syed is an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, specializing in the social aspects of artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies. His research focuses on AI’s social ontology, agential capacities, social influence, and ethics. For example, how do generative AI systems, such as large language models, affect social institutions like education, the judicial system, and interpersonal relationships?

My also incorporates philosophy of religion, reflecting his commitment to a multidisciplinary approach to addressing the challenges posed by AI. My research has explored the social ontological status of chatbots and their implications for societal structures. One focus of my research is aligning AI with human values, especially from a global perspective.

Looking ahead, I plan to continue conceptual analysis of the language and concepts used to describe AI systems. I am optimistically cautious and believe that emerging technologies can contribute positively to diverse communities worldwide.

Outside of philosophy, I enjoy the cold and hiking in the mountains. My non-philosophical life goal is to visit all national parks in North America. I like wildlife and advocate for animal well-being. My future projects will undoubtedly include animal welfare in the technosocial world.