The world is fast-changing and working, and as I aim to work as a software developer on AI-related projects, I may face a problem with using personal data. The project manager may push for the inclusion of extensive personal data, arguing that it would significantly enhance the current project’s ability to understand and respond to user preferences (Sourour, 2016). However, the sensitivity of personal information raises ethical concerns related to privacy and autonomy. The moral question is whether to prioritize the potential advancement in AI capabilities at the expense of individuals’ privacy rights.
I chose to apply the principles of deontological ethics, specifically Kantian ethics, to explain the problem in depth and find the right solution. Kantian ethics is mainly about the worth of people and the proper treatment of the self. Applying the theory should not harm the explicit consent threats (Wayner, 2014). This type of ethics is common to the Social Contract Theory, which holds that people living together form a shared vision of ethical and moral questions (McCombs School of Business, 2018). Every person can give their consent to the use of their personal data, and in this case, the theory can be successfully implemented.
In line with Kantian ethics, my conclusion is to prioritize individual autonomy and privacy over potential advancement in AI capabilities. Every user should obtain informed consent before personal information is collected to avoid cyberbullying (Thierer, 2009). Therefore, the unique moral code will not be violated in this case, and all parties will remain satisfied.
The solution aligns with the deontological principles of respecting everyone’s worth and desires. While this approach may limit the immediate progress of AI projects, it upholds a moral standard related to respecting people’s borders (Martin, 2015). The following outcomes on future improvement are massive to me, as they align with my moral code and the use of technical advances. It underscores the importance of AI development and protects the balance between innovation and ethical considerations.
Reference
McCombs School of Business. (2018). Social Contract Theory | Ethics Defined. YouTube.
Martin, R. C. (2015). The programmer’s Oath. The clean code blog.
Sourour, B. (2016). The code I’m still ashamed of. FreeCodeCamp.
Thierer, A. (2009). Cyber-Libertarianism: The case for real internet freedom. The Technology Liberation Front.
Wayner, P. (2014). 12 ethical dilemmas gnawing at developers today. InfoWorld.