Toby Ord
Toby Ord is a moral philosopher and Senior Research Fellow in Philosophy at Oxford University, working on the big picture questions facing humanity. His current research is on the long term future of humanity, and the risks which threaten to destroy our entire potential. His earlier work explored the ethics of global poverty, leading him to make a lifelong pledge to donate 10% of his income to the most effective charities helping improve the world. Ord is the Creator of Giving What We Can, whose members have pledged over $1.5 billion to the most effective charities helping to improve the world. He also co-founded the wider Effective Altruism movement, encouraging thousands of people to use reason and evidence to help others as much as possible. He is the author of The Precipice, which explores these topics and concludes that safeguarding our future is among the most pressing and neglected issues we face.
Toby Ord Professional Experience / Academic History
Professional Experience
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Senior Research Fellow
Academic History
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D.Phil., Philosophy
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B.Phil., Philosophy
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B.A., Philosophy & B.Sc., Computer Science
RESEARCH & EXPERTISE
Ord is a distinguished philosopher and thought leader who has carved a unique niche in the field of existential risk and ethical decision-making.
His earlier work explored the ethics of global health and global poverty, demonstrating that aid has been highly successful on average and has the potential to be even more successful if we were to improve our priority setting.
His current research is on the long term future of humanity, and the risks which threaten to destroy our entire potential.
CONSULTING
He has advised prominent organizations such as the World Health Organization, the World Bank, and the World Economic Forum.
He has consulted for various government bodies, including the US National Intelligence Council, the UK Prime Minister’s Office, the Cabinet Office, and the Government Office for Science.
He is currently donating his money to a range of organisations tackling global development and poverty.
His work has been featured hundreds of times in the national and international media.
RECOGNITIONS
2020 The Good List - 10 Inspiring Philanthropists, Financial Times
2014 Alumni Rising Star Award, University of Melbourne
2011 Happy List, Sunday Times Rich List
2005 Jowett Arts Prize, Balliol College