AI Ethics: Status of the Present, Ethical Dilemmas, and Frameworks for the Practical Mind

by Debbie Sue Jancis

"AI Ethics" offers a comprehensive exploration of the moral principles that should guide the development and deployment of artificial intelligence technologies. In an era where AI systems are becoming increasingly integrated into various aspects of society, the book addresses the urgent need to ensure these technologies are aligned with ethical standards. By examining the foundational ethical frameworks, this book provides a roadmap for understanding how AI can be both innovative and ethical.

The book begins by introducing the reader to key ethical theories, such as Utilitarianism, which focuses on maximizing overall happiness and minimizing harm, and Deontology, which emphasizes adherence to moral duties and rules. It also covers Virtue Ethics, which prioritizes the character and moral virtues of individuals involved in AI development. These frameworks are analyzed in the context of AI, illustrating how they can be applied to assess and resolve ethical dilemmas arising from AI technologies.

Central to the book's narrative is the concept of "Virtuous Leadership", building on ideas from my previous work. The book argues that leaders in technology must embody virtues such as honesty, integrity, and responsibility to navigate the ethical challenges posed by AI effectively. By fostering a culture of ethical leadership, organizations can ensure that AI systems are designed and used in ways that respect human dignity and promote the common good.

Throughout the book, practical examples and case studies are used to illustrate the application of ethical frameworks in real-world scenarios. From AI in healthcare and finance to autonomous vehicles and social media algorithms, the book examines how ethical considerations influence decision-making and impact society. These examples underscore the importance of transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI systems.

"AI Ethics" also addresses the role of stakeholders in shaping AI ethics, including governments, tech companies, and civil society. It highlights the need for collaboration among these groups to establish robust ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks. The book advocates for inclusive dialogues and cross-disciplinary efforts to address the complex ethical issues associated with AI.

In addition to exploring established ethical frameworks, the book considers emerging perspectives that emphasize the need for global cooperation and cultural sensitivity in "AI Ethics". It discusses the challenges of implementing ethical guidelines across diverse cultural contexts and the importance of considering global impacts when designing AI systems.

Ultimately, "AI Ethics" serves as a vital resource for technologists, policymakers, ethicists, and anyone interested in the ethical dimensions of AI. By providing a nuanced understanding of ethical theories and their applications, the book equips readers with the tools to critically evaluate AI technologies and contribute to a future where AI enhances human well-being and social justice.

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 29, 2024

Reviews

[Stephen Sharp · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read!

This book offers a clear look at the ethical challenges of AI. It explains basic ethical ideas like fairness, transparency, and responsibility, showing how they apply to real-world AI systems in areas like healthcare and finance. With practical examples, it highlights the need for ethical leadership in tech and encourages collaboration among governments, companies, and the public. A great, accessible guide for anyone interested in making AI both useful and ethical.

[Maud van Lier · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is meant for developers and companies to Integrate ethical principles and values in the AI-systems they use and their overal technical approach. The book reads like that too. It is both very abstract and pragmatic by including many models and diagrams for possible workflows. At the same time, the message is important and the book offers concrete handholds to engage with and make use of AI in a more ethically aware way.

[Troy Leonard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of info

This is a great book discussing the ethics of artificial intelligence in everyday life as well as in military applications. It covers a wide variety of different topics, and is an essential read for professionals as well as Everyday People wanting one about science and technology with artificial intelligence.

[Kenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great guidelines on AI ethics implementation

This book provides a holistic approach of AI ethical practices and framework. It offers a great guidelines for organizations to ensure AI is implemented according to the acceptable use. Great job Debbie.

[Wildine Pierre · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good resource

This book offers a sharp analysis of contemporary AI challenges tackling issues and social automation. A must have for people navigating the ethical complexities of emerging technologies

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good introduction to the issues that AI development is creating and solving.

Focused mainly toward AI developers, it also outlines the ethical issues that need to be considered.

[Geronimo Flores Luna · Rating 2 out of 5]

It is relieving to know that ethics is a practice taken seriously in the ever so quickly expanding world that is AI. Of course, that would be in theory. I think with such tools being so easily accessible in today's age, there is far too much room for error and virtuous compromise. The disbursal of these tools to the public, though convinient to the average worker, could lead to negative effects on social constructs and what is perceivably real. What is truly organic to our essence of character. I will give credit that these are issues adddressed by the author but I fear the majority of AI users in the common realm would compromise stated ethical practices, rendering them habitual shortcomings that soon would encapsulate modern society.