Simon Friederich

Simon Friederich is an Associate Professor at the University College Groningen, Department of Humanities. He holds external roles as an External Member of the Munich Centre for Mathematical Philosophy and Member of the WePlanet Advisory Board. His research focuses on quantum theory interpretation, philosophy of technology, and multiverse epistemology. Friederich’s work bridges physics and philosophy, addressing challenges like quantum non-locality and existential risks posed by AI and climate change.

Education & Research Background: Friederich completed his PhD in physics, contributing to studies on high-temperature superconductivity. He transitioned to philosophy, focusing on foundational questions in physics and technology. His grants include an NWO Vidi for 'Saving Reality with Exotic Causality' (2022) and a Veni grant (2016) for multiverse research.

Research Themes:

• Quantum Theory Interpretations (Retrocausality, Statistical Mechanics analogies)
• AI Ethics (Natural Selection analogies, existential risks)
• Multiverse Theories (Fine-Tuning debates, epistemic limits)
• Climate Ethics (Nuclear Energy mandates, energy justice)

Recent Contributions: Friederich’s 2025 article on 'Causation, Cluelessness, and the Long Term' explores long-term ethical decision-making. His 2024 paper on AI development critiques natural selection analogies in AI evolution. He co-authored influential works on nuclear energy ethics and sustainability limitations. His 2023 paper 'The Future of Intelligence in the Universe' calls for humility in cosmological predictions.

Awards & Grants:

• Vidi Grant (2022)
• Veni Grant (2016)
• Member of Young Academy Groningen (2017)

Teaching & Outreach: Teaches existential risk courses at Groningen and LMU Munich. Engages in public debates on AI safety, climate policy, and energy transitions through media contributions like 'KI könnte schleichend die Macht übernehmen' (2023).