O’Donovan, William (2024) Artificial Intelligence The Human Autonomy and Ethical Considerations of Advancing Intelligent Systems and Machines. Masters thesis, National University of Ireland Maynooth.
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Abstract
In the modern era, the Artificial Intelligence (AI) concept existed since Alan Turing conceived Machine Learning in 1935.1 AI, as a term, came into more common and public discourse in early 2023, when Elon Musk, industry leaders and others called for more regulation. This marked a turning point for more public discussion. Popular views range from, AI bringing enormous benefits, to AI representing an existential threat for mankind. Understanding the dichotomy between AI’s promise and its perils is vital for humankind, human dignity, autonomy and freedom. As a technology AI disrupts society and its norms. While acknowledging the benefits; there are moral and ethical issues, along with serious threats. To bring an understanding of AI itself, human intelligence and consciousness; as well as computer-based intelligence and consciousness must be considered. The moral standings of humans and AI must be evaluated and assessed if they are or could be equal. Should AI become superior to human intelligence, “Strong AI,” humans may become subservient to it, then fundamental human rights questions arise. Humans and AI companies maintain that they will always be in full control of Weak and Strong AI, however the reality might suggest the contrary, if the underlying ways of human life are altered. In its current iteration, Weak AI has and will continue to irreversibly change people’s behaviours, humans become reliant on AI to the degree of being unable to conduct ordinary aspects of everyday life in its absence. While multiple problems exist in the world, AI further harms human autonomy and is socially disruptive. ‘Big Data’, the ‘Internet of Things’ and ‘always connected’ systems, are part of AI and are driven by AI. Its power lies not just with these technologies, but also with the algorithms’ subliminal effects. The relatively limited number of Big-tech companies sway governments, using their enormous economic and political clout. This thesis sets out to demonstrate how, while Weak AI may not be a true existential threat to mankind; there are nevertheless serious moral and
ethical risks and dangers that overshadow its unquestionable benefits. However, strong governments can resolve these dilemmas.
Item Type: | Thesis (Masters) |
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Keywords: | Artificial Intelligence; Human Autonomy; Ethical Considerations; Advancing Intelligent Systems; Machines; |
Academic Unit: | Faculty of Arts,Celtic Studies and Philosophy > Philosophy |
Item ID: | 19282 |
Depositing User: | IR eTheses |
Date Deposited: | 06 Jan 2025 11:33 |
URI: | https://mural.maynoothuniversity.ie/id/eprint/19282 |
Use Licence: | This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available here |
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