Roger Crisp

Wellcome Centre for Ethics and Humanities

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Roger Crisp is a leading moral philosopher whose work bridges ancient ethics and contemporary applied philosophy. His research centers on virtue ethics, well-being, and the moral status of emerging technologies. In his highly influential paper "Can Robotic AI Systems Be Virtuous and Why Does This Matter?" (2022, 41 citations), Crisp provocatively challenges the assumption that only humans can possess moral character. He argues that if AI systems can reliably act from virtuous motives—or simulate such behavior—they may warrant moral consideration, reshaping debates in AI ethics. Crisp is also renowned for his contributions to the philosophy of well-being, particularly his defense of objective-list theories and his incisive critiques of hedonism. His work on the nature of virtue and practical wisdom has revitalized interest in Aristotelian ethics within modern moral theory. With over 40 citations for his AI ethics paper alone, Crisp’s scholarship continues to influence philosophers, computer scientists, and policymakers. His ability to connect classical ethical frameworks with cutting-edge technological dilemmas makes him a vital voice in contemporary moral philosophy, inspiring students and researchers to rethink the boundaries of moral agency.