The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence

What is Artificial Intelligence?

We’ll start with a quick introduction into what artificial intelligence actually is. We’ve all heard of it, and probably use it on a daily basis now, but it will be beneficial to have a clear definition of it. Artificial intelligence (commonly referred to as AI) is the computer’s ability to almost imitate human intelligence – this includes having the aptitude to perform human tasks such as write a coherent essay on a subject, think creatively, and to learn and adapt over time. Above all, AI works much faster than your average human and is insanely useful when it comes to solving complex problems. But of course, nothing comes without its faults. 

Technology is evolving, and that includes AI. This begs the question on how it can be kept under control, this is where ethics come into play.

We’ll talk about what AI ethics means, why it’s important, and the global standpoint of AI innovation and ethics.

What is AI ethics?

We live in a world where organisations use AI on a daily basis to conduct their business – AI ethics concerns the principles in place to police its behaviours based on human values. It’s crucial in making sure AI stays beneficial for society, and is used and developed in line with AI ethical principles. There are no universally agreed laws for AI but organisations and government agencies still follow ethical principles.

“We must not just build AI that is intelligent but also AI that is wise.” – Max Tegmark

Common AI Ethical Issues

• Fairness & Bias: If AI is not carefully crafted, it may mirror or magnify human prejudice.

• Privacy & Surveillance: AI data collecting poses questions regarding individual liberty.

• Accountability: If AI commits a mistake, who bears the blame?

• Jobs & Automation: How should society react to AI-driven employment losses?

• Big Tech Power: The most cutting-edge AI is controlled by large corporations.

• Deepfakes and Misinformation: AI is capable of producing difficult-to-identify fake content.

These are some ethical principles that AI should follow to prevent common ethical issues:

• Human wellbeing and dignity – AI should not replace humans nor compromise their wellbeing. AI’s top priority should be to protect human kinds wellbeing and dignity

• Human oversight – A human should always assume full responsibility over any involvement with AI. This is sometimes called the “human in the loop” as this makes sure that ethical responsibilities are being overlooked by a human. 

• Addressing biases and discrimination – No biases or discrimination should arise while using AI. This needs to be made sure in the design process.

• Transparency and explainability – Clear language should be used when explaining why an AI model makes a certain decision or produces specific results. 

• Follow data protection laws – All data protection should be in line with data laws. In the UK we have GDPR and any organisation or person that utilises AI should follow the policy guidelines and protection standards.

• Promote inclusivity and diversity – AI models should foster fair representation. This includes allowing everyone to use, contribute to, and benefit from AI – regardless of one’s background or identity. 

• Society and economies – AI should only benefit society and our economies. 

AI and Automation

There are certain ethical questions about what this means for us as humans when AI and automation technologies are combined. AI has been combined with automation because of its potential benefits, which include improved decision-making and flexibility, a reduction in human error, and better production and efficiency. Although there are many advantages, we still need to think about the moral implications and how this can harm some individuals in some professions. AI will replace repetitive tasks in our society and push out individuals who are no longer needed if it is to become a dominant force. These individuals will need to retrain in order to fit into new roles since they will no longer have work. These people’s financial and mental health may suffer as a result.

The goal of an AI-driven world is to minimise human interception. However, as this presents additional ethical issues, it might not be the wisest course of action. The most significant concerns about this include algorithmic biases, privacy problems, and a lack of transparency. 

All of this demonstrates that the most crucial factor in integrating AI into the human world is the ability to police and enforce rules to ensure that it remains moral and that we only benefit. 

Global Stances on AI Ethics

In order to achieve a worldwide agreement on safe, secure, and reliable AI systems, the United Nations have developed a draft resolution for 2025 that encourages all member states to adopt national regulatory and governance methods. The idea of acceleration with guardrails is widely accepted. In essence, this indicates that most governments are encouraging innovation while simultaneously creating laws that accommodate it. High-risk areas in this regard include face recognition, deepfakes, and autonomous weapons. 

Examples of different countries ruling on AI:

USA – The USA has proposed a risk management framework that ensures trusty AI. This was created by The National Institute of Standards and Technology.

UK – In 2023, the UK government published a white paper entailing the pro-innovation regulation. This regulation includes guiding principles for sectors across the UK.

China – China is investing a lot into their AI development, strategically making it a priority. Additionally, they are simultaneously enforcing tight regulations, focusing heavily on content moderation, data security, and social harmony. 

Global South – In the South, they are developing a little slower than the countries mentioned above. These countries are waiting on economic opportunities but taking them every chance they get. 

Shaping the Future, Responsibly

AI presents both incredible opportunities and significant ethical issues as technology continues to advance at a never-before-seen rate. AI is becoming a part of our everyday lives, changing everything from industries to how people study, work, and interact. At Sullivan Tutor Academy, we think that students should be ready to comprehend, challenge, and help shape the appropriate use of AI tools in society in addition to being able to use them.

For this reason, we incorporate conversations about digital literacy, technological ethics, and critical thinking into our computer science tutoring. Our goal is for our students to be knowledgeable, capable, and prepared for the future.

Want your child to not just keep up with AI – but lead? Explore our expertly designed GCSE Computer Science tutoring programmes and help them build the mindset and skills needed to thrive in a digital world.

👉 Book your FREE Consultation to find out more.