معرفی
David J. Gunkel is a Professor in the Department of Communication at Northern Illinois University (USA) and associate professor of applied ethics at Łazarski University in Warsaw, Poland. Internationally recognized for his innovative work on the moral and legal status of artificial intelligence and robot rights, Dr. Gunkel brings a unique combination of hands-on technical experience and philosophical insight to the field of human-machine communication.
- Ph.D. from DePaul University
- Presidential Research, Scholarship and Artistry Professor at NIU
- Acting Department Chair (at Northern Illinois University)
Dr. Gunkel specializes in the philosophy of technology with a focus on the moral and legal challenges of artificial intelligence and robots. His research bridges the gap between technical implementation and ethical considerations, drawing upon diverse traditions in ethics while incorporating practical experience in application development. He is particularly known for his agenda-setting contributions to the new field of human-machine communication (HMC) and efforts to diversify the theory and practice of AI ethics.
His recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on the ethical dimensions of emerging technologies, with particular attention to large language models, social robotics, and the philosophical implications of machine intelligence. Gunkel's work consistently challenges conventional frameworks for understanding technology's role in society, advocating for more nuanced approaches to the moral status of artificial entities.
- Presidential Teaching Professor (2009)
- Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award (2006)
- Award winning researcher and author
- Award winning web programmer and interactive media designer
Dr. Gunkel has developed an innovative curriculum in technology, ethics, and society with courses including Web Design and Development, Computer Mediated Communication, AI Robots and Communication, and Communication Technology. He serves as co-editor of the Indiana University Press series in Digital Game Studies and is founding co-editor and managing editor for the International Journal of Zizek Studies. His book publications include Hacking Cyberspace (2001), Thinking Otherwise (2007), The Machine Question (2012), Heidegger and The Media (2014), and AI for Communication (2024).
