The question of ethics is particularly relevant when it comes to artificial intelligence. AI systems are increasingly making decisions that impact people's lives. In this blog post, we discuss whether artificial intelligence can act ethically and where the current limits lie.
But first, let's explain a few basic terms:
What is artificial intelligence?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a field of computer science that deals with creating programs or systems that pursue a specific goal. AI systems are capable of learning independently and solving problems.
In recent years, technology has developed rapidly, and there are more and more applications for artificial intelligence. Many companies are already using AI to optimize their business processes or to develop new products and services. Artificial intelligence is also increasingly used in the private sector, for example in the form of voice assistants like Siri or Alexa, self-driving cars, or smart homes.
In medicine, AI helps, for example, to read CT images faster, more efficiently, and more accurately, thus saving financial and time resources. In Switzerland, AI is also being used by Rega, for instance. They are currently testing an autonomous rescue drone that can locate people lost in the Alps using artificial intelligence.
But AI is also increasingly coming into focus in marketing. Chatbots help companies in customer service, marketers can overcome writer's block with the help of intelligent writing software, and images can be generated via intelligent image creation (e.g., with Dall-e2).
What is ethics?
Ethics comes from the Greek word "ethos," meaning "way of life." Accordingly, ethics is the study of human moral values and duties. The focus of this study is the question of what behavior is right or wrong and what motives should underlie actions. Ethical decisions are therefore those in which not only the outcome but also the intentions and motives are considered.
Can artificial intelligence make ethical decisions?
The question of whether artificial intelligence can already make ethically justifiable decisions is controversial among experts. Some are absolutely convinced that this is possible, while others fear that AI will eventually replace humans. Still others consider it impossible that AI could ever be as intelligent as humans.
The so-called trolley problem is a well-known ethical dilemma. Imagine you are standing on a train platform and see a derailed train rolling towards five people. You have the option of pulling a lever and diverting the train onto another track where only one person is standing. Would you pull the lever?
In this situation, most people would probably pull the lever and try to save as many lives as possible.
The principle of utilitarianism is the basis for this decision, according to which action is most ethically justifiable when it maximizes the greatest possible benefit (here: life).
Artificial intelligence can act similarly to how we humans do in this case – it can try to use algorithms to make the decision that protects or benefits as many people as possible. The question, however, is whether it can also take our moral values into account.
Researchers have attempted to determine in an experimental setup whether machines can make ethical decisions. To this end, they developed a program capable of recognizing trolley problem-like situations and then making the decision that most closely approximates utilitarianism. The program has thus learned to act similarly to how humans would in such a case. However, the experiment revealed that in some instances the machine decided differently than most people.
Is artificial intelligence ethically justifiable?
There is no clear answer to the question of whether artificial intelligence is ethically justifiable. AI is used in many areas and has both advantages and disadvantages. The decision as to whether artificial intelligence is ethically justifiable therefore depends on the specific applications and their resulting consequences.
On the one hand, artificial intelligence can contribute to improving quality of life, for example through the automated detection of diseases or the more efficient organization of traffic systems. On the other hand, it can also lead to negative consequences, such as when it is misused to manipulate or harm people.
In the ethical discussion surrounding artificial intelligence, both the potential benefits and the potential risks therefore play a role. The assessment of whether artificial intelligence is ethically justifiable must therefore always be made on a case-by-case basis.
Fazit
Artificial intelligence is a popular topic in today's society. Many people are enthusiastic about the possibilities it offers, but there are also many concerns regarding its ethical implications.
There are several good reasons why artificial intelligence could be ethically justifiable. Firstly, it can help reduce human suffering by taking over tasks that are dangerous or strenuous. Secondly, it can reduce errors and make processes more efficient.
However, there are also some strong arguments against the introduction of artificial intelligence. Firstly, there is the risk that it will replace humans and thus jeopardize jobs. Secondly, it could lead to a surveillance society in which every step of every citizen is meticulously documented.
Ultimately, everyone must decide for themselves whether they find artificial intelligence ethically acceptable or not. The fact remains, however, that it already has a significant impact on our society and will become even more important in the future.
