Trolley Problem

Definition

The trolley problem is a thought experiment in ethics that presents a moral dilemma where an individual must choose between two harmful outcomes, typically involving a runaway trolley heading toward five people tied to a track, and the option to pull a lever to redirect it onto another track where it would kill one person. This scenario raises important questions about utilitarianism versus deontological ethics and highlights the complexities of moral decision-making, especially in contexts like autonomous systems and AI governance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The trolley problem is often used in discussions of moral philosophy to illustrate the tension between utilitarianism and deontological ethics.
2. Different variations of the trolley problem exist, each adding layers of complexity and different moral implications.
3. The scenario raises questions about how autonomous vehicles should be programmed to make life-and-death decisions.
4. Philosophers and ethicists use the trolley problem to debate the ethical implications of AI and machine learning in decision-making processes.
5. The trolley problem serves as a foundation for developing frameworks for ethical decision-making in autonomous systems, highlighting the need for clear ethical guidelines.

Review Questions

• How does the trolley problem illustrate the conflict between utilitarianism and deontological ethics?
  • The trolley problem presents a classic conflict between utilitarianism, which would support pulling the lever to minimize harm by saving five lives at the expense of one, and deontological ethics, which argues against taking an action that directly causes harm, regardless of the outcome. This dilemma showcases how different ethical frameworks can lead to divergent conclusions in seemingly similar situations. The tension between these philosophies is essential for understanding moral decision-making.
• Discuss how the trolley problem informs ethical challenges faced by autonomous vehicles when making decisions in emergency situations.
  • The trolley problem directly influences how autonomous vehicles are programmed to respond in emergency situations where lives are at stake. Engineers and ethicists must grapple with scenarios where an autonomous car must decide whether to sacrifice its passenger or pedestrians. This raises significant ethical challenges about whose lives are prioritized and how these decisions reflect societal values. The outcome of these discussions will shape future regulations and standards for AI behavior in life-threatening situations.
• Evaluate the implications of the trolley problem on the need for governance in AI development and implementation.
  • The trolley problem highlights critical implications for AI governance by emphasizing the necessity of establishing clear ethical guidelines for machine decision-making. As AI systems become more autonomous, they will face complex moral dilemmas similar to those presented in the trolley problem. Without robust governance frameworks that outline acceptable moral parameters and accountability measures, there is a risk of arbitrary or biased outcomes. This calls for interdisciplinary collaboration among ethicists, technologists, and policymakers to create comprehensive oversight mechanisms that ensure AI systems align with societal values.

Related terms

Utilitarianism:

An ethical theory that advocates for actions that maximize overall happiness or utility, often used to justify decisions that lead to the greatest good for the greatest number.

Deontological Ethics:

An ethical framework that focuses on adherence to rules or duties, arguing that certain actions are morally right or wrong regardless of their consequences.

Moral Agency: The capacity of an individual or entity to make moral judgments and be held accountable for their actions, particularly relevant in discussions about autonomous systems.