In a society dominated by rapid technological growth, it may be surprising that age-old philosophical ideas is shaping our modern technological landscape. From ethics in artificial intelligence (AI) to the very nature of human existence in a virtual world, ancient philosophical debates are still highly relevant today. The meeting point between philosophy and technology is creating a unique discussion, and grasping this relationship is key to successfully managing our technology-powered future.
One of the most fascinating areas where philosophy comes into play is in the moral aspects of AI. As AI systems become more intelligent and independent, developers are taking inspiration from ethical guidelines inspired by minds like Kant, Aristotle, and their contemporaries to guide the design of AI systems. These age-old moral guidelines help tech experts consider choices about equality, justice, and moral obligations in AI systems. Additionally, conversations philosophy around data privacy, virtual identity, and the implications of surveillance are deeply grounded in philosophical thought at their core, echoing debates explored by ancient philosophers about the nature of self and the nature of society.
But philosophy's influence on technology goes past questions of morality. Classical philosophers have long debated the concept of existence, and now virtual reality is challenging those very notions. What does it suggest to "be real" in a world where we can build virtual selves? Are our interactions in a simulated reality distinct than those in the physical world? These queries, once the field of abstract thinking, are becoming key to discussions about the future of technology. By understanding ancient thought, we can acquire greater knowledge into the role of tech and how they affect our perception of existence.