PHIL 143.004 – AI and the Future of Humanity: Philosophical Issues about Technology and Human Survival

Instructor: Katie Deaven. This course meets MWF 1:25 – 2:15 p.m. in SC 209.

This course is an introduction to ethical questions that have arisen, or will likely arise, in connection with new technologies. We’ll begin with an introduction to moral theorizing and exploring their implications for technology use. Next, we’ll turn to the ethical landscape of the technosocial world. We’ll examine issues including the spread of misinformation on the internet, the ethical use of algorithms, and the impact of social media on society. Then, we’ll explore some ways in which technology might impact our society more broadly, particularly when it comes to work, privacy, and the relationship between the citizen and the state. Finally, we’ll consider issues concerning moral responsibility and the training of AI/robots.