Superethics Instead of Superintelligence: Know Thyself, and Apply Science Accordingly

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Science
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Ethics

Background:

• Humanity is advancing cognitive understanding and developing influential technologies.
• Current technological development, particularly in AI, raises questions about its purpose and risks, including superintelligence.
• There's a need to reflect on how scientific insights and technological applications align with human values.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically examine the current trajectory of AI development and its societal implications.
• To argue for a shift in focus from increasing intelligence to enhancing ethical behavior through technology.
• To explore the potential of cognitive neuroscience and AI in developing 'moral crutches'.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of current scientific understanding of human cognition.
• Ethical reflection on the application of AI and emerging technologies.
• Exploration of the intersection between cognitive science, AI, and ethical development.

Main Results:

• Humanity's strengths and weaknesses are illuminated by science, guiding technological development.
• The pursuit of commercial AI implementations and superintelligence may overshadow ethical considerations.
• A deficit in ethical and empathetic capacity, rather than intelligence, is identified as a key challenge.

Conclusions:

• The focus should not be on developing superintelligence, but on fostering 'superethics'.
• Cognitive neuroscience and AI offer tools to build technologies that support ethical action.
• There is an urgent need to prioritize the development and implementation of ethically-aligned technologies.