Forming an ethical paradigm for morally sentient robots: Sentience is not necessary for evil

Abstract

As society teeters on the verge of robotic automatons performing complex functions in every aspect of human existence, urgent questions arise concerning human accountability for ethics as they design robots capable of making moral decisions. The aim of this study considers a path toward an ethical paradigm for morally sentient robots. In order to determine the extent of human accountability, an ethical spectrum of robots is discussed. While seeking to define functional good in a robotic setting, the nature and degree of robotic sentience is explored. Subsequently, the divergent positions regarding an ethical paradigm for morally sentient robots must be examined. Following these experts' opinions, an analysis of a human/dog model for human/robot relations is explained. The constructs that frame the human/robot dynamic include Asimov's Laws, as well as necessary design considerations. An ethical paradigm results from a study of Plato's Republic through which emerges a means to find good for robots in a functional setting.