A 2014 paper on the ethics of brain emulations remains among the most downloaded works in the Journal of Experimental and Theoretical Artificial Intelligence. Authored by Anders Sandberg, this study exemplifies a career focused on the intersection of computational neuroscience, societal impact, and the theoretical limits of future technological development.
Academic Foundation and Research
Born in Solna Municipality in 1972, Sandberg holds a PhD in computational neuroscience from Stockholm University. His career has focused on technical roadmaps regarding whole brain emulation, neuroethics, and existential risk. During his tenure as a senior research fellow at the Future of Humanity Institute at the University of Oxford, he explored cognitive enhancement methods and policy analysis. His academic contributions also include postdoctoral work at the Oxford Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics, where he contributed to the EU-funded ENHANCE project.
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In 2018, Sandberg collaborated with nanotechnologist Eric Drexler and philosopher Toby Ord to publish Dissolving the Fermi Paradox. This research utilized probability distributions to account for the uncertainties inherent in the Drake equation. Their findings suggest a significant likelihood that humanity is isolated within the observable universe. Additionally, Sandberg addressed hypothetical physics scenarios, most notably with a 2018 arXiv paper titled Blueberry Earth, which examined the structural consequences of replacing the planet's volume with uncompressed blueberries.
Advocacy and Public Engagement
Sandberg’s involvement in public discourse includes serving as chairman of the Swedish Transhumanist Association between 1996 and 2000. He acted as the scientific producer for the 2005–2006 exhibition Se Hjärnan!, which toured Sweden to explore neuroscience for a broader audience. He is also an active proponent of cryonics, serving as an advisor to the UK Cryonics and Cryopreservation Research Network and formally arranging for his own cryopreservation.
Artistic and Collaborative Projects
Beyond scientific literature, Sandberg engages in collaborative worldbuilding as a founder of the project Orion's Arm and the think tank Eudoxa. His visual art has been adapted for book covers by futurist Damien Broderick, featuring in titles such as The Dreaming, The Judas Mandala, and Warriors of the Tao.
Fast facts
- Born: 11 July 1972, Solna Municipality, Sweden
- Education: Stockholm University, PhD in computational neuroscience
- Key Affiliation: Future of Humanity Institute, University of Oxford
- Notable Collaborative Project: Orion's Arm
- Advocacy: Cryonics and transhumanism
- Language: Swedish
Questions readers ask
What is the focus of Sandberg's research regarding future technology?
He concentrates on societal and ethical impacts of human enhancement, whole brain emulation, and the assessment of existential risks.
Does Anders Sandberg advocate for cryonics?
Yes, he is an advisor to the UK Cryonics and Cryopreservation Research Network and has arranged for his own cryonic preservation.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Future of Humanity Institute and University of Oxford
- Educated at Stockholm University
- Worked as computer scientist
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