Expert Systems: Value and Ethical Issues Posed by Advanced Computer Technology

这项经验性的研究项目旨在探索设计用于复制人类专业知识的计算机程序所带来的社会价值和伦理影响。该计划将通过集中精力确定设计和建造这些系统的知识工程师所持有的专业和社会可取标准，来检验这种人工智能技术背后的价值。这种方法包括密集和结构化的采访，专门设计来引出默认的价值观。预计随后的信息将对即将到来的关于“智能机器”的开发和使用的伦理思考做出重大贡献。最初，由两名哲学家和一名社会科学家组成的顾问小组将仔细审查方法和结果。另外两个人，一名律师和一名熟悉这项技术的人也将就该项目进行咨询。研究结果将以论文和演示文稿的形式传播给哲学家、计算机科学家、社会科学家和非专业观众。这个项目解决了一个重要的问题；申请者和她的顾问都很有资格，而且她有不同寻常的机会接触到要研究的人群。合作努力可能会在本奖项的期限之后继续下去。该项目设计得很好；大学的支持和传播成果的计划是适当的。因此，建议赔偿75170美元。

This empirical research project is designed to explore the social values and ethical implications posed by the creation of computer programs designed to replicate human expertise. The plan is to examine the values underlying this artificial intelligence technology by concentrating on ascertaining the professional and social standards of desirability held by the knowledge engineers who design and build these systems. The methodology consists of intensive and structured interviews especially designed to elicit tacit values. It is expected that the ensuing information will make a significant contribution to the forthcoming ethical deliberation as to the development and use of "intelligent machines." Initially, an advisory group composed of two philosophers and one social scientist will scrutinize the method and results. Two additional people, one lawyer and one person knowledgeable in this technology will also be consulted on the project. The results will be disseminated to philosophers, computer scientists, social scientists, and lay audiences in papers and presentations. This project addresses an important issue; the applicant and her advisors are well qualified and she has unusual access to the population to be studied. Collaborative efforts are likely to continue beyond the period of this award. The project is designed well; university support and plans for the dissemination of results are appropriate. An award in the amount of $75,170 is therefore recommended.