Towards a Global Artificial Intelligence Charter
Cambridge University Press eBooks October 28, 2022 DOI: 10.1017/9781009207898.013 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Citations | 9 |
| Key points | Metzinger argues that AI development poses five problem domains and proposes measures including worldwide safety standards, preventing an AI arms race, avoiding artificial consciousness because synthetic phenomenology could cause non-biological suffering that might increase vastly as AI can be copied rapidly, preparing for 'unknown unknowns', and establishing a code of ethical conduct for AI researchers. |
Abstract
In this chapter, the philosopher Thomas Metzinger lists five main problem domains related to AI systems. For each problem field, he proposes several measures which should be taken. Firstly, there should be worldwide safety standards concerning the research and development of AI. If not, Metzinger fears a ‘race to the bottom’ in safety standards. Additionally, a possible AI arms race must be prevented as early as possible. Thirdly, he stresses that any creation of artificial consciousness should be avoided, as it is highly problematic from an ethical point of view. He argues that synthetic phenomenology could lead to non-biological forms of suffering and might lead to a vast increase of suffering in the universe, as AI can be copied rapidly. While AI might improve different kinds of governance, there is the risk of unknown risks, the ‘unknown unknowns’. Accordingly, as a fourth problem domain, the author proposes allocating resources to research and prepare for unexpected and long-term risks. Finally, Metzinger highlights the need for a concrete code of ethical conduct for anyone researching AI.