Pupils Debate AI Ethics at Dulwich College Popper Prize

Two of our enthusiastic Fourth Year Philosophy and Theology pupil recently decided to participate in a philosophical debate surrounding ethics in artificial intelligence by submitting entries to the Popper Prize. They were able to select from a range of titles, finally landing on “Can AI systems be held accountable for their actions and decisions?” and “The greater the freedom of a machine, the more it will need moral standards.” They tackled the complex issues of responsibility and regulation in AI, engaging in their own research and meeting for conversations and discussions about the ethical questions as well as the process of structuring investigative writing. In the first essay, they argued that AI systems cannot be held accountable for their actions, as machines lack the capacity to truly understand the consequences of their decisions. In the second, they concluded that as AI gains greater autonomy, it must be guided by clearly defined ethical standards and consistent human oversight to ensure its potential is realised safely and positively.

After submitting their essays, we received an invitation to Dulwich College to attend a prize-giving event featuring a lecture by Dr Caroline Green. She focused on the fascinating topic of how AI relates to democracy, and the dangers and potential benefits the democratic system may experience. This was prefaced by a fascinating explanation of how AI systems are developed, deepening our insight into how they work and how this impacts the decisions they make. The lecture also gave a glimpse into how specialists at Oxford are working to combat future issues with AI ethics. We learned that Oxford is currently developing a new and exciting AI Hub at the university; a space where people can come together to collaborate on innovative solutions to ethical challenges in AI. It was an insightful and inspiring experience that broadened our understanding of the future of AI and its impact on ethical discussions. 

The process of researching, writing and engaging in conversations with Mrs Bullard and Mrs Webster about the purpose, role and future of AI was so rewarding. It was also exciting to have the opportunity to meet others who had entered the competition. When the prize winners and commendations were announced we were delighted to find out that Tara had been highly commended for her efforts. Congratulations to both Tara and Meera!