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Distributed Cognition and Distributed Morality: Agency, Artifacts and Systems
1Department of Philosophy, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia. richard.heersmink@gmail.com.
Science and Engineering Ethics
|July 6, 2016
Summary
This study examines distributed cognition and distributed morality theories, revealing how artifacts influence moral reasoning and decision-making. It explores the moral status of cognitive artifacts and responsibility in distributed systems.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Mind
- Ethics
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Philosophical theories explore the human relationship with artifacts.
- Distributed cognition and distributed morality theories offer distinct perspectives.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare distributed cognition and distributed morality theories regarding artifacts.
- To analyze the role of cognitive artifacts in moral practice.
- To investigate the moral status and responsibility of artifacts in distributed systems.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of philosophical theories.
- Conceptualization of cognitive artifacts in moral reasoning.
- Examination of ontological status and system integration.
Main Results:
- Identified similarities and differences in artifact ontology between the two theories.
- Conceptualized how artifacts scaffold moral reasoning and decision-making.
- Proposed that artifact moral status is contingent on cognitive status.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive artifacts play a crucial role in moral practice and decision-making.
- Distributed systems involving artifacts can be subject to moral consideration.
- Further philosophical inquiry into extended cognition and technology ethics is warranted.
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