Formerly the Ethics of AI Society of Waterloo

Thinking carefully about the technology reshaping our world.

An interdisciplinary research institute advancing scholarship, public engagement, and honest discussion on the ethical, philosophical, social, and political implications of artificial intelligence.

11
Universities & colleges represented
100+
Members across the community
3
Public symposiums held
2022
Founded at the University of Waterloo

"We reject both uncritical technological optimism and reactionary resistance."

Our approach

An inquirer's approach to a fast-moving field.

AI is reshaping medicine, education, governance, warfare, and everyday life. We exist to ensure these transformations are guided by careful ethical reflection — not enthusiasm or doomsaying alone.

We promote a normatively grounded, philosophically rigorous, and publicly engaged approach to AI governance — emphasizing transparency, epistemic responsibility, and the role of human judgment in high-stakes decisions.

Read more about who we are →
What we do

Scholarship, dialogue, and public engagement.

News & updates

What's happening at the Institute.

Meetings, milestones, and the growth of the Institute. Join our Microsoft Teams community to keep up with everything.

Get the invite →
September 2026 · Upcoming

Next meeting — Drone warfare

Our next discussion examines the ethics of autonomous and AI-assisted weapons systems. See the Teams group for details.

July 2026

Meeting — AI in agriculture

The Institute held a meeting exploring ethical issues involving AI in agriculture.

July 2026

Institutional charter

The Institute appointed its inaugural Board of Directors to guide future growth and governance.

June 2026

A new name

The Ethics of AI Society of Waterloo officially became the Ethics of AI Institute.

Listen

The Ethics of AI Podcast

Conversations on responsibility, inductive risk, and the questions raised by emerging technologies — hosted by founding director Dr. Matthew S.W. Silk.

Open on Spotify →
Become a member

Membership is open to anyone thinking seriously about AI.

Educators, researchers, students, and professionals are all welcome. Join our Microsoft Teams community to take part in meetings and discussions.

Email to join → Learn more