Understanding the Three Fundamental Divisions in Ethical AI Debate
Recently, discussions concerning the responsible use of AI technology have risen into the mainstream media, gaining momentum and capturing the attention of a wider audience. Previously, such debates were confined to only researchers and developers who were engaged in exploring AI. Now managers and common citizens are taking part in such a discussion. For example, many school administrators are discussing whether it is appropriate to ban ChatGPT in schools.
As AI enters various aspects of society, it becomes crucial to know the divergent perspectives that shape these debates and grasp the underlying philosophies that influence ethical considerations. By knowing these foundational divisions, we can better understand the complexity of ethical adoption and contribute to developing responsible and sustainable AI systems.
Mark Cockelburg, the author of the renowned book on AI Ethics, sheds light on three distinct divisions that encompass the varying perspectives. These divisions revolve around three fundamental aspects concerning the role of humans in our world. They are (1) the clash between Enlightenment and Romanticism, (2) the contrasting ideologies of Humanism and Transhumanism, and (3) the juxtaposition of Humanism and Post-Humanism.
These divisions bring out tensions between historical, philosophical, and future-oriented outlooks. By knowing these divisions, we gain valuable insights into the complexities of AI ethics and the diverse viewpoints that shape the responsible use of AI technologies.
The clash between Enlightenment and Romanticism
Enlightenment and Romanticism are distinct and historically significant philosophical stands shaping many ethical debates. Philosophers and thinkers participating in the debates discussing ethical issues align themselves with the fundamental principles upheld by these movements.
Enlightenment thinkers prioritize reason, scientific inquiry, and scepticism to comprehend the world around us. They seek to unravel reality’s mysteries through scientific investigation, viewing it as a path to advance human progress. Advocates of enlightenment thinking champion values such as liberty, individual rights, and happiness as paramount in ethical discussions.
Conversely, Romanticism emphasizes the power of emotion, intuition, imagination, and subjective experiences. Romanticist thinkers argue that the wonders and mysteries of the world make life more enriching and captivating. In ethical debates, proponents of romanticism emphasize human values like individual experiences, emotional connections, and authenticity.
To illustrate the divergent perspectives, let’s consider how an Enlightenment and a Romanticist thinker might react to banning ChatGPT in schools.
An Enlightenment thinker would likely oppose such a ban, arguing that it infringes upon personal liberty and hinders students’ productivity. They might contend that developing and using tools like ChatGPT shed light on the cognitive processes involved in crafting essays and presenting arguments in favour of their educational value. Further, they might argue that technology like ChatGPT can enhance learning by providing access to vast amounts of information and encouraging intellectual exploration.
Conversely, a romanticism thinker would likely support the ban, asserting that tools like ChatGPT stifle creativity, as essays written with their assistance may lack originality and fail to reflect the authentic sentiments internalized by the learner.
Humanism and Transhumanism
Humanism and transhumanism attempt to answer two fundamental questions. These are: What does it mean by a human? Or, more specifically, what does it mean by a human in the age of intelligent machines? Transumunaism thinkers provide the answer to the question: What should the human become? (Homo Deus?)
Humanist thinkers often defend human rights, human dignity, and the agency of human beings. They uphold the supremacy of human beings in the world. Humanists typically reject supernatural beliefs and focus on human concerns and well-being in this life rather than a focus on the divine or the afterlife. Humanism values critical thinking, scientific inquiry, human rights, social justice, and the promotion of human happiness and flourishing.
Transhumanism, on the other hand, is a movement that explores the possibilities of enhancing human capabilities through technological advancements. It looks beyond the limitations of the human condition and aims to use emerging technologies to improve physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities. Transhumanists advocate for the ethical and responsible use of technology to enhance human life, including potential developments such as genetic engineering, artificial intelligence, mind uploading, and life extension. They envision a future where humans can transcend their biological limitations and achieve new levels of intelligence, longevity, and well-being.
Let’s again consider how a humanist and transhumanist thinker might react to banning ChatGPT in schools. Humanists and transhumanists may be on the same side, but their arguments would differ.
A humanist thinker might argue against banning ChatGPT in schools, as it can give students access to vast information, facilitate critical thinking, and encourage independent research. Humanists generally value the open exchange of ideas and the development of individual autonomy, so they may view ChatGPT as a valuable tool for expanding knowledge and fostering intellectual growth.
On the other hand, a transhumanist thinker might see banning ChatGPT as a limitation on technological progress and the potential for human enhancement. They might advocate for the responsible use of AI technologies like ChatGPT, emphasizing the importance of integrating such tools into the educational system. Transhumanists often envision a future where humans can augment their cognitive abilities and might view ChatGPT as a step in that direction. They might argue that banning it would hinder students’ exposure to advanced technologies and impede their preparation for a technologically driven society.
Humanism and Posthumanism
As we have seen above, humanism's worldview upholds the centrality of human beings in the world and any ethical debate.
Posthumanist thinkers challenge the centrality of human beings in any ethical debate. They argue that human beings are not the sole resident of the planet Earth. Non-human animals have also an equal right to live on this planet Earth. They are more concerned about the irresponsible consumption of natural resources by human beings and the violence made by them against animals. Posthumanist thinkers never see technology as a threat, or they are not against human enhancement. For a posthumanist thinker, there is no competition or race between humans and machines. Rather, they appreciate the complimentary role for each other.
In the context of banning ChatGPT in school, post-humanists may argue that rather than outright banning ChatGPT, it is essential to critically engage with and regulate its use in educational contexts. They would likely emphasize the need for responsible implementation, addressing privacy, algorithmic bias, and the potential impact on human creativity and critical thinking skills.
Takeaways:
- Enlightenment, romanticism, humanism, transhumanism and posthumanism are five underlying philosophical perspectives that shape AI ethics debates.
- Understanding the core elements in these philosophical perspectives helps us explore responsible AI development's complexities.
- By exploring these perspectives and their implications, we can contribute to developing AI systems that align with human values, foster societal well-being, and ensure responsible and sustainable development of AI technology.
