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Peter-Paul Verbeek

President at Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW)

Peter-Paul Verbeek is professor of philosophy and ethics of science and technology at the University of Amsterdam. His work investigates the relations between humans, technology, and society, focusing on the impact of technology on ethics and scientific practice. Previously he was rector magnificus of the University of Amsterdam, and distinguished professor of philosophy of technology at the University of Twente. He also served as chair of the UNESCO World Commission for the Ethics of Science and Technology (COMEST).

Verbeek has been President of the KNAW since 1 September 2026. Previously, he was Chair of De Jonge Akademie. Among his book publications are 'What Things Do: philosophical reflections on technology, agency and design' and 'Moralizing Technology: understanding and designing the morality of Things'. His Dutch-language books include Op de vleugels van Icarus, De maakbare mens and Wat maakt de mens?