An explanation of the relationship between artificial intelligence and human beings from the perspective of consciousness

The moral status of artificial intelligence (AI) depends on the level of consciousness an AI possesses. Drawing on the evolution of consciousness in nature, this paper examines several consciousness abilities of AIs and proposes several possible relationships between humans and AIs. The advantages and disadvantages of those relationships are analyzed using classical ethics theories, including contract theory, utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics. This approach helps construct a common hypothesis about the future relationship between humans and AIs, offering practical and normative guidance for distinguishing among different possible relationships.

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Abstract

What will be the relationship between human beings and artificial intelligence (AI) in the future? Does an AI have moral status? What is that status? Through the analysis of consciousness, we can explain and answer such questions. The moral status of AIs can depend on the development level of AI consciousness. Drawing on the evolution of consciousness in nature, this paper examines several consciousness abilities of AIs, on the basis of which several relationships between AIs and human beings are proposed. The advantages and disadvantages of those relationships can be analysed by referring to classical ethics theories, such as contract theory, utilitarianism, deontology and virtue ethics. This explanation helps to construct a common hypothesis about the relationship between humans and AIs. Thus, this research has important practical and normative significance for distinguishing the different relationships between humans and AIs.