Moral Imagination for Engineering Teams: The Technomoral Scenario

MCML Authors

Benjamin Lange

Dr.

JRG Leader Ethics of AI

Ethics of Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

'Moral imagination' is the capacity to register that one’s perspective on a decision-making situation is limited, and to imagine alternative perspectives that reveal new considerations or approaches. We have developed a Moral Imagination approach that aims to drive a culture of responsible innovation, ethical awareness, deliberation, decision-making, and commitment in organizations developing new technologies. We here present a case study that illustrates one key aspect of our approach – the technomoral scenario – as we have applied it in our work with product and engineering teams. Technomoral scenarios are fictional narratives that raise ethical issues surrounding the interaction between emerging technologies and society. Through facilitated roleplaying and discussion, participants are prompted to examine their own intentions, articulate justifications for actions, and consider the impact of decisions on various stakeholders. This process helps developers to reenvision their choices and responsibilities, ultimately contributing to a culture of responsible innovation.

article

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The International Review of Information Ethics

34.1. Oct. 2024.

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Authors

G. Keeling • B. Lange • A. McCroskery • K. Pedersen • D. Weinberger • B. Zevenbergen

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Links

DOI

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Research Area

 C5 | Humane AI