David Ween

David Ween is a Center for Ethics Graduate Fellow at The Murphy Institute and a PhD candidate in the Department of Philosophy. His dissertation titled, For the Good of the Group: A Theory of Collective Moral Status, explores the theory of collective wellbeing and interests and is written under the direction of Prof. Caroline Arruda. His research is focused on ethics, political philosophy, and problems of human well-being in the modern world, exploring the rights and interests of social groups, the ethics of technology and labor, and what it means to weigh collectives seriously in our moral discourse. In addition to his academic research, David helps leaders, teams, and independent individuals navigate AI and automation—from designing effective data management systems to implementing automated tools. This practice serves as a direct extension of his research, grounded in a commitment to ethical design, system-level strategy, and human well-being. By bridging theory and practice, David helps organizations adapt to technological change in ways that reflect their core values, preserve institutional integrity, and drive long-term flourishing.

The Center for Ethics Graduate Fellowships provides support to outstanding Tulane doctoral students who have excelled in their fields of specialization, have demonstrated an interest in ethical questions that cut across disciplinary boundaries, and are likely to make significant contributions to teaching and scholarship in their respective fields.