Anthony G. Oettinger

Anthony G. Oettinger was a Harvard professor and influential thinker on information policy, communications, and the social impact of computing. At Harvard University, he held positions in applied mathematics and later founded the Program on Information Resources Policy, an interdisciplinary center examining how information systems affect national policy, governance, and society.

Oettinger conducted pioneering research in automatic language translation, machine intelligence, and information theory during the early years of digital computing. His work on natural-language processing and computer-based decision systems anticipated many later developments in artificial intelligence and analytics.

He advised U.S. government agencies, NATO, telecommunications companies, and research institutions on issues ranging from information policy to communications infrastructure and national security. His ability to connect technical understanding with public policy made him a valued advisor during periods of rapid technological change.

Oettinger’s writing, teaching, and policy influence left a lasting mark on the study of information resources and the public-sector understanding of computing’s role in society.