Overview:

Philosophers since the 1930s have thought of "Artificial Intelligence" (AI) as machines (or computers) who "think" or are "intelligent" like humans.  But as the field of computer science and computer programming developed, more careful consideration has been given to the question: what would it mean for a program to be "intelligent?"  The materials here are intended to help students understand this rapidly developing technology, reflect on how it might impact their lives and society in general, and identify ethical issues that we may confront related to AI.

Topics:

What IS Artificial Intelligence (and is it different from human intelligence)?

To introduce this topic, students should make a list of examples of things they think MIGHT be examples of artificial intelligence (from movies, science fiction books, videogames, or their daily lives).  Once there is a list of examples, ask students to consider what the examples have in common, what might make these count as "artifiical intelligence".

Short video on Artificial Intelligence

After the Video Discussion Questions:

  • What are some examples of AI that you use in your daily lives?  What characteristics or qualities do they share?​
  • How and who should decide what to program in AI machines?​
  • Is Artificial Intelligence inherently dangerous?  What can we do to prevent any harms?​
  • How much decision power should AI have?​
  • How should we treat AI?  When do we recognize something as having rights?​