| Title | : | Teaching intelligent autonomous machines to be ethical and to present the current debate |
| Speaker | : | Dr. Stephen Thorpe (AUT) |
| Details | : | Mon, 26 Aug, 2019 3:00 PM @ AM Turing Hall |
| Abstract: | : | Lovers of science fiction movies and novels will be able to
name many instances of ‘rogue’ artificial intelligence systems
and robots that go on a destructive rampage in the stories we
create for our near and distant future. In the real world, so
called Intelligent Autonomous Machines (IAMs) such as
driverless cars are being introduced – sometimes without
much of a public debate as to what the pre-programmed
decision-making should be for these machines when faced
with a human life threatening dilemma. This raises fresh
concerns about the harm that such machines can cause
humans, or how to safeguard against the unexpected. A
major problem is that, currently, it is not known how best to
ensure that IAMs make the right decisions. What is to be the
basis of their moral or ethical fabric? What do we collectively
want as the factors or the core dimensions included in their
thinking and their behaviour so that they know it is wrong to
harm humans. The aim of this talk is to explore the
problematic nature of machine morality and the current state
of thinking about how to get IAMs to be ethical in the same
way that humans are. Bio: Dr Thorpe’s role as the Head of External Relations and Development sees him strategize, lead and grow the student- industry engagement for the School of Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences and, more recently, leading the development of an innovative new Master of IT Project Management programme at the Auckland University of Technology. With a background in facilitation, user-centered design and technology, he integrates the domains of technology and collaboration in bringing together communities of students, alumni and industry. As an academic, educator and team facilitator, he brings a unique skill set to the implementation of strategy-aligned initiatives in-line with his university’s vision. |
