Mr Michael Lazarou

Hello!

I'm a PhD candidate in the Department of Philosophy. My research is broadly in the area of the Ethics of AI. More specifically, I'm interested in how AI systems model and represent the world, and how they do so in a manner different from - or similar to - how humans model and represent the world. I am especially interested in considering how answers to the above can inform our approach to questions in ethics, especially those relating to holding people and institutions responsible or accountable for outcomes that may be the result of opaque or inscrutable AI systems.

Previously, my MPhil was on the topic of vagueness, wherein I offered a novel solution to the "Problem of the Many". My thesis was accepted without revision and received a Dean's Commendation for Thesis Excellence.

Professionally, I love teaching; I've taught in philosophy and interdisciplinary courses across a number of years, and have guest lectured in computer science. I received a Faculty of Arts Excellence in Teaching Prize in 2019 in recognition of my teaching, and I look forward to continue helping others explore and engage with the richness of philosophy.

I have also worked at the University's Writing Centre for over 7 years, and was its coordinator from late 2021 to early 2024. I love helping others to better communicate ideas, and to help translate what are often nebulous thoughts into a form that others can understand.

Outside of the academy, I love playing chess (and being involved in the University's marvellous chess club!), hiking and trail running, and reading political economy.