This project develops a philosophical theory of the role of executive functioning in human achievement. This theory is used to provide a novel understanding of the value of executive functioning and of how achievements requiring human executive functions should be protected. The theory developed in the project is also used to solve two puzzles in philosophy of technology: it identifies which skills and tasks should not be outsourced to artificial agents, and it explains why and how achievements requiring executive functions should be protected from digital distraction. The method of the project is empirically informed philosophy in which philosophical work is done in close engagement with empirical executive functioning research.

2026

2030