Artificial intelligence (AI) is an area where the Pentagon is making strides, not just technologically, but also ethically. A high-ranking Air Force official recently highlighted how the United States’ Judeo-Christian heritage strengthens its code of AI ethics, setting it apart from other countries.
The Influence of Judeo-Christian Foundations
During a Hudson Institute event, Lt. Gen. Richard Moore, Deputy Chief of Staff for Plans and Programs at the Air Force, argued that the moral compass inherent to a Judeo-Christian society positively impacts the U.S.’s AI ethics approach.
“Many are willing to use any means to achieve their goals. We’re ready for that, but our guiding principles differ,” Moore shared. He further noted that the society’s ethical base will influence how nations wield AI.
The Global AI Race: A View from Capitol Hill
The same week Moore voiced his observations, experts presented on Capitol Hill about the dangers of China outpacing the U.S. in AI advancements. This discussion comes amidst the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, justified by Russia as a defense of Christian society. The international race to command AI adds another layer to the discussion about ethical AI usage.
Exploring Ethical AI in Defense
Moore explained how the Pentagon’s latest budget aims to delve into ethical AI usage. The focus revolves around three main questions: What tasks should we allow AI to perform? How can we understand and trust AI decision-making? And when should we let AI function independently, even when it makes us uncomfortable?
According to Moore, these critical discussions are taking place at the highest echelons of the Defense Department.
Pentagon’s Past Initiatives on Ethical AI
As early as 2019, the Defense Innovation Board advisory group stressed the need for AI systems to be responsible, equitable, traceable, reliable, and governable. Recently, the U.S. has also started encouraging other nations to establish norms for military AI applications.
In the face of global AI competition, the Pentagon’s focus on ethical AI standards is not just a testament to the U.S.’s Judeo-Christian values, but a guiding light for others navigating the complexities of AI in defense.
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