Artificial intelligence for human flourishing – Beyond principles for machine learning

B.C Stahl,A Andreou,P Brey,T Hatzakis,A Kirichenko,K Macnish,S Laulhé Shaelou,A Patel,M Ryan,D Wright

doi:10.1016/j.jbusres.2020.11.030

Abstract

The technical and economic benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) are counterbalanced by legal, social and ethical issues. It is challenging to conceptually capture and empirically measure both benefits and downsides. We therefore provide an account of the findings and implications of a multi-dimensional study of AI, comprising 10 case studies, five scenarios, an ethical impact analysis of AI, a human rights analysis of AI and a technical analysis of known and potential threats and vulnerabilities. Based on our findings, we separate AI ethics discourse into three streams: (1) specific issues related to the application of machine learning, (2) social and political questions arising in a digitally enabled society and (3) metaphysical questions about the nature of reality and humanity. Human rights principles and legislation have a key role to play in addressing the ethics of AI. This work helps to steer AI to contribute to human flourishing.

Highlights

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) is often described in terms of human progress
The purpose of this paper is to contribute to the discussion about how to identify, interpret and address ethical issues arising from AI appli cations
One outcome of this work was the classification of ethical issues into specific issues arising from machine learning, general questions about living in a digital world and metaphysical questions

Summary

Introduction

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) is often described in terms of human progress. The recent progress of machine learning, supported by growing amounts of available data combined with rapidly expanding computing capabilities and publicly available tools and li braries, have led to expectations of increased efficiency and to new and better services for consumers and citizens. This broadly positive discourse is, counterbalanced by a discussion of the downsides and risks of AI.

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