ClassX Video Lessons Subjects Artificial Intelligence A.I. Ethics: Should We Grant Them Moral and Legal Personhood? | Glenn Cohen
The idea of whether artificial intelligence (AI) can be considered a form of personhood is a captivating topic that has been explored in both films and philosophical discussions. Two notable films that delve into this theme are Stanley Kubrick’s AI and Alex Garland’s Ex Machina. These films provide valuable insights into the complexities of personhood in relation to AI.
One common perspective is that personhood is inherently linked to being human. This view suggests that only humans can be considered persons, implying that all persons are humans. However, this perspective raises significant ethical questions, especially when considering the implications of excluding non-human entities from moral consideration.
Philosopher Peter Singer, a well-known bioethicist, challenges the notion of speciesism—the idea that belonging to a particular species grants one moral superiority. Singer argues that denying moral consideration to beings solely based on their species is similar to racism. He suggests that if we were to encounter an entity indistinguishable from a human in every respect, yet it was not human—such as a Martian or a robot—there would be no justifiable reason to afford it less moral regard.
This perspective encourages us to consider the possibility that artificial intelligence could possess the necessary capacities to qualify as persons, even though they are not human.
On the other hand, there are instances where members of the human species may not meet the criteria for personhood. For example, anencephalic children—those born with severely underdeveloped brains—are often cited as individuals who, despite being human, may lack the capacities typically associated with personhood. This creates a challenging dilemma: it suggests that some humans may be classified as non-persons while some non-humans could potentially be recognized as persons.
If we accept the notion that being a member of the human species is not a necessary or sufficient condition for personhood, it opens the possibility that AI could one day achieve person-like status and the rights that accompany it. This prospect can be unsettling for many, as it challenges long-held beliefs about the nature of personhood.
Reflecting on human history reveals a troubling pattern of arbitrarily declaring certain groups as non-persons, such as the treatment of slaves. This historical context underscores the importance of humility and openness in our discussions about personhood and AI. Rather than hastily dismissing the potential for AI to be recognized as persons, it may be wise to approach the topic with a willingness to explore the ethical implications and possibilities that lie ahead.
In conclusion, the intersection of artificial intelligence and personhood raises profound questions that deserve careful consideration. As technology continues to evolve, so too must our understanding of what it means to be a person in an increasingly complex world.
Watch the films AI by Stanley Kubrick and Ex Machina by Alex Garland. After viewing, participate in a group discussion to analyze how each film portrays AI and the concept of personhood. Consider the ethical dilemmas presented and how they relate to the arguments discussed in the article.
Engage in a structured debate on the topic of speciesism as presented by Peter Singer. Divide into two groups: one supporting the traditional view of personhood linked to human species, and the other advocating for the inclusion of AI as potential persons. Prepare arguments and counterarguments to explore the ethical implications of each stance.
Examine real-world case studies where AI has been integrated into decision-making processes, such as in healthcare or law enforcement. Analyze these cases to determine whether AI exhibits characteristics of personhood and discuss the potential consequences of recognizing AI as persons in these contexts.
Write a philosophical essay exploring the complexities of human non-persons and non-human persons. Reflect on the criteria for personhood and how they apply to both humans and AI. Consider the implications of redefining personhood in light of technological advancements.
Participate in an interactive workshop where you will role-play as different stakeholders (e.g., AI developers, ethicists, policymakers) to discuss the ethical implications of granting personhood to AI. Collaborate to develop guidelines or policies that address the potential recognition of AI as persons.
Artificial Intelligence – The simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems. – In the philosophy of mind, artificial intelligence raises questions about the nature of consciousness and whether machines can possess it.
Personhood – The status of being a person, often debated in terms of moral and legal rights. – The concept of personhood is central to discussions about whether advanced artificial intelligence could ever be granted rights similar to humans.
Ethics – The branch of philosophy that deals with questions of morality and the principles of right and wrong behavior. – The development of artificial intelligence technologies necessitates a robust ethical framework to address potential societal impacts.
Speciesism – The assumption of human superiority leading to the exploitation of animals. – Philosophers argue that speciesism is a bias that should be considered when designing AI systems that interact with both human and non-human entities.
Moral – Concerned with the principles of right and wrong behavior and the goodness or badness of human character. – The moral implications of deploying autonomous weapons systems powered by artificial intelligence are a significant concern for ethicists.
Capacity – The ability or power to do, experience, or understand something. – The capacity of artificial intelligence to process vast amounts of data far exceeds that of the human brain, raising questions about the future of human labor.
Human – A member of the species Homo sapiens, distinguished by advanced cognitive abilities and the capacity for language and self-awareness. – In philosophical debates, the distinction between human and artificial intelligence often centers on the unique qualities of human consciousness.
Non-human – Entities that are not human, often discussed in terms of their rights and moral consideration. – The ethical treatment of non-human animals is a topic that intersects with discussions on the rights of artificial intelligence entities.
Implications – The possible effects or consequences of an action or a decision. – The implications of artificial intelligence on privacy and security are critical areas of study in contemporary philosophy and ethics.
Humility – A modest view of one’s own importance; humbleness. – Philosophers argue that humility is essential when considering the limits of human knowledge in the face of rapidly advancing artificial intelligence.
