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Extremely Relational Robots: Implications for Law and Ethics

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Abstract

This Commentary critiques an extremely relational view of robot moral status, drawing out its practical implications for ethics and law. It also suggests next steps for AI ethics if extremely relational reasoning is compelling. Section I introduces the topic, distinguishing an ‘extremely relational’ view from more moderate relational views. Section II illustrates extremely relational views using the example of embodiment. Section III explores practical implications of extremely relational views for ethics and law. Section IV offers possible responses to extreme relationism. Section V concludes by suggesting next steps for AI ethics.

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Each author contributed substantially to the conception and analysis of the work; drafting or revising it critically; final approval of the version to be published; and is accountable for all aspects of the work.

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Correspondence to Nancy S. Jecker.

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Jecker, N.S. Extremely Relational Robots: Implications for Law and Ethics. Philos. Technol. 37, 52 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13347-024-00735-x

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