Autonomous vehicles: a review of the ethical, social and economic implications of the AI revolution

Abstract

Purpose

There are ethical, legal, social and economic arguments surrounding the subject of autonomous vehicles. This paper aims to discuss some of the arguments to communicate one of the current issues in the rising field of artificial intelligence.

Design/methodology/approach

Making use of widely available literature that the author has read and summarised showcasing her viewpoints, the author shows that technology is progressing every day. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are at the forefront of technological advancement today. The manufacture and innovation of new machines have revolutionised our lives and resulted in a world where we are becoming increasingly dependent on artificial intelligence.

Findings

Technology might appear to be getting out of hand, but it can be effectively used to transform lives and convenience.

Research limitations/implications

From robotics to autonomous vehicles, countless technologies have and will continue to make the lives of individuals much easier. But, with these advancements also comes something called “future shock”.

Practical implications

Future shock is the state of being unable to keep up with rapid social or technological change. As a result, the topic of artificial intelligence, and thus autonomous cars, is highly debated.

Social implications

The study will be of interest to researchers, academics and the public in general. It will encourage further thinking.

Originality/value

This is an original piece of writing informed by reading several current pieces. The study has not been submitted elsewhere.

Citation

Banerjee, S. (2021), "Autonomous vehicles: a review of the ethical, social and economic implications of the AI revolution", International Journal of Intelligent Unmanned Systems, Vol. 9 No. 4, pp. 302-312. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJIUS-07-2020-0027