The project mapped, analysed and evaluated possible developments in AI and, using computer-animated storyboards (scrollytelling), created the basis for the creation of new transformation narratives between planetary boundaries and artificial intelligence. In more detail:
- A map of 10 AI application areas, that could fundamentally change the current relationships between humans, technology and the environment, is available ranging from natural language simulation to swarm intelligence. Empirically observable AI developments were distinguished from speculative visions.
- Ethical analyses were carried out for two AI application areas: Affective Computing and Autonomous Systems to access spaces not at humans' disposition so far. Ethically relevant points to consider are (1) AI-based manipulation and deception of emotions, (2) participation and equity of access including the role of private companies, (3) Extended Reality as better learning versus alienation through depersonalisation and disembodiment, (4) privacy of personal data, (5) naturalness versus artificiality, and authenticity regarding emotions, (6) Autonomous Systems as part of the frontier ideology of a benefit-oriented technification of nature versus demands for (partial) unavailability of spaces, (7) purely symptom-oriented techno-fix approaches versus sufficiency promotion through AI, (8) modification of responsibility relations through AI, and (9) dual use or strong military involvement and interests in AI research.
- Entry points for debate of the ethical findings are the arenas of education for sustainable development and sustainable behaviour, the normative dimension of not-disposable spaces in the Anthropocene, and governance of technology development. Storyboards were used to provide an entry point for new narratives that should also encourage environmentally-concerned people and journalists to engage with normative questions of AI.
- Current research needs were identified. The necessity of developing a comprehensive research programme in the age of digitalisation and the Anthropocene became clear, as did the need for a more comprehensive ethical framework and a convergence of discourses on digitalisation, ethics, the environment/sustainability and the common good with a view to shaping the future.
The results of the project have been published in the UBA-Texte series, and the final report [contains a 10-page summary in English] can be downloaded.
Erdmann, L.; Cuhls, K.; Warnke, Potthast, T.; Bossert, L.; Brand, C.; Saghri, S. (2022): Digitalisierung und Gemeinwohl - Transformationsnarrative zwischen Planetaren Grenzen und Künstlicher Intelligenz. Abschlussbericht. UBA-Texte 29/2022. Umweltbundesamt (UBA).
Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI