Prof. Oron Shagrir

Prof. Oron Shagrir is an Israeli philosopher and cognitive scientist, currently holding the Schulman Chair of Philosophy at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His academic journey began with a BSc in Mathematics and Computer Science, followed by an MA in Philosophy of Science from the same institution. He furthered his studies in the United States, earning a PhD in Philosophy and Cognitive Science from the University of California, San Diego, under the guidance of renowned philosopher Patricia Churchland. Shagrir's research spans the interdisciplinary realms of philosophy, cognitive science, and computing, focusing on the foundational aspects of cognition and the nature of computation.

At Hebrew University, Shagrir has made significant contributions as Vice President for International Affairs and previously as Vice Rector. He has also chaired the Cognitive Science department, advancing academic discourse and research initiatives. His influential publications, including co-authoring "Computability: Turing, Gödel, Church, and Beyond" and numerous articles in prestigious journals, delve into the philosophical underpinnings of computational theory and the history of modern computing. Recognised with the 2024 K. Jon Barwise Prize, Shagrir continues to shape contemporary debates on the semantic view of computation and the philosophy of mind, enriching global academia with his profound insights and scholarly leadership.

Prof. Oron Shagrir is a well-known Israeli philosopher and cognitive scientist known for his profound contributions to understanding the mind and computing. Born in 1961, he currently holds the prestigious Schulman Chair of Philosophy at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.

Shagrir's academic journey began with a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics and Computer Science, followed by a Master's in Philosophy of Science from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. His fascination with the intersection of philosophy and cognitive science led him to pursue a PhD at the University of California, San Diego, where he studied under the guidance of Patricia Churchland, a leading figure in philosophy.

Throughout his career, Shagrir has explored fundamental questions about computation and the mind. His research delves into how computers process information and how this relates to human cognition. This includes examining the philosophical foundations of computational models used in cognitive science.

At the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Shagrir has held significant leadership roles, including Vice President for International Affairs and Head of the Cognitive Science department. His tenure has been marked by a commitment to fostering international academic collaborations and advancing cognitive science research.

Shagrir is widely recognised for his scholarly publications, which have greatly influenced the field. Notable among these is his co-authored book "Computability: Turing, Gödel, Church, and Beyond", published by MIT Press, which explores the theoretical underpinnings of computation and its philosophical implications. He has also contributed extensively to leading journals such as Synthese and Minds and Machines, addressing topics ranging from computational indeterminacy to the semantic view of computation.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Shagrir is dedicated to mentoring students and fostering intellectual dialogue within the academic community. His influence extends beyond the classroom through his editorial roles in journals like The Rutherford Journal and the Springer book series Studies in Brain and Mind.

In 2024, Prof. Oron Shagrir was honoured with the prestigious K. Jon Barwise Prize for his outstanding contributions to the field of philosophy and cognitive science. Prof. Shagrir continues to inspire future generations of thinkers through his profound insights into the nature of computation and its role in understanding the complexities of the human mind. His work remains pivotal in shaping the ongoing discourse on philosophy, cognitive science, and the philosophy of computing worldwide.

Prof. Oron Shagrir envisions a future where the complexities of the mind and the principles of computation are not just understood theoretically but also applied practically to enhance human understanding and technological advancements. His vision centres on bridging the gap between philosophy and cognitive science, exploring how computational theories can illuminate the workings of the brain. By advocating for a semantic view of computation, he aims to foster a deeper understanding of cognitive processes and their ethical implications. Shagrir's vision is to pave the way for innovative research that not only enriches academic discourse but also contributes to societal well-being through technological innovation.