In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the most transformative technologies, influencing various aspects of our lives. As its presence grows, so does the need for robust ethical guidelines to ensure its safe and fair use. According to a study by the AI Ethics Guidelines Global Inventory, there were 167 such guidelines worldwide as of April 2020. Given the rapid pace of technological advancements, it is likely that this number has significantly increased since then.
These guidelines aim to encapsulate “ethical principles” for AI, setting expectations for manufacturers, engineers, and other stakeholders. Although these principles are not legally binding, they reflect a global consensus on the ethical behavior expected from AI systems. Core principles commonly found across these guidelines include transparency, justice and fairness, non-maleficence, responsibility, and privacy.
Anna Jobin and her team conducted a study analyzing 84 AI ethics guidelines from the West and Japan, highlighting the shared ethical principles among them. However, their research also noted that no single principle is universally adopted, illustrating both the commonalities and differences in these guidelines. This divergence underscores the influence of varying social and cultural contexts on ethical standards.
A further study by researchers Hongladarom and Bandasak explored additional principles found in specific guidelines. For instance, the Thai guideline prioritizes economic competitiveness, reflecting the country’s focus on leveraging AI to boost national development. Similarly, Chinese guidelines emphasize “harmony,” showcasing cultural nuances in defining AI ethics.
The similarities and differences in these guidelines present both opportunities and challenges. While shared principles suggest a potential for global consensus, the specific interpretations of these principles vary significantly across cultures. Michael Walzer, in his book “Thick and Thin: Moral Argument at Home and Abroad,” discusses how the concept of “justice” can evoke different understandings in different cultural contexts.
To address these variations, it is crucial to develop a theoretical framework that accommodates diverse cultural perspectives. Traditional Western ethical theories, such as Kantian ethics and utilitarianism, offer valuable insights but may not be entirely applicable in non-Western contexts. For example, Kantian ethics, with its abstract and formal nature, may clash with the more concrete and contextual ethical traditions of Asia.
In contrast, Buddhist ethical theory offers a compelling alternative, particularly in Asian contexts. Rooted in the alleviation of suffering and the realization of emptiness, Buddhist ethics emphasizes a holistic approach to well-being. Unlike Western virtue ethics, which shares some similarities with Buddhist thought, the latter incorporates a well-developed metaphysical theory that guides ethical cultivation.
A Buddhist-inspired approach to AI ethics could provide a unifying framework that transcends cultural boundaries. By focusing on the universal desire to avoid suffering and achieve genuine happiness, such a framework can foster a shared understanding of ethical principles. This does not imply a need for everyone to adopt Buddhist beliefs but rather to recognize common human experiences and values.
As AI continues to permeate various sectors globally, there is an urgent need for a comprehensive regulatory framework that respects cultural diversity while promoting universal ethical standards. A Buddhist-based system, grounded in a realistic understanding of human nature and shared values, offers a promising path forward. By emphasizing the common goal of minimizing suffering and enhancing well-being, we can develop AI ethics guidelines that resonate across different cultures and contexts.
