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Is using AI tools innovation or exploitation? 3 ways to think about the ethics

AI’s rapid evolution prompts ethical dilemmas across industries, raising questions about creators’ rights, societal impacts, and professional integrity, necessitating thoughtful reflection and balanced approaches.

Published

3 months ago

December 24, 2024

The Conversation

AI technology seems to be evolving faster than collective wisdom about how to use it ethically. Nutthaseth Vanchaichana/iStock via Getty Images Plus

Leo S. Lo, University of New Mexico

Artificial intelligence can be used in countless ways – and the ethical headaches it raises are countless, too.

Consider “adult content creators” – not necessarily the first field that comes to mind. In 2024, there was a surge in AI-generated influencers on Instagram: fake models with faces made by AI, attached to stolen photos and videos of real models’ bodies. Not only did the original content creators not consent to having their images used, but they were not compensated.

Across industries, workers encounter more immediate ethical questions about whether to use AI every day. In a trial by the U.K.-based law firm Ashurst, three AI systems dramatically sped up document review but missed subtle legal nuances that experienced lawyers would catch. Similarly, journalists must balance AI’s efficiency for summarizing background research with the rigor required by fact-checking standards.

These examples highlight the growing tension between innovation and ethics. What do AI users owe the creators whose work forms the backbone of those technologies? How do we navigate a world where AI challenges the meaning of creativity – and humans’ role in it?

As a dean overseeing university libraries, academic programs and the university press, I witness daily how students, staff and faculty grapple with generative AI. Looking at three different schools of ethics can help us go beyond gut reactions to address core questions about how to use AI tools with honesty and integrity.

Rights and duties

At its core, deontological ethics asks what fundamental duties people have toward one another – what’s right or wrong, regardless of consequences.

Applied to AI, this approach focuses on basic rights and obligations. Through this lens, we must examine not only what AI enables us to do, but what responsibilities we have toward other people in our professional communities.

For instance, AI systems often learn by analyzing vast collections of human-created work, which challenges traditional notions of creative rights. A photographer whose work was used to train an AI model might question whether their labor has been appropriated without fair compensation – whether their basic ownership of their own work has been violated.

On the other hand, deontological ethics also emphasizes people’s positive duties toward others – responsibilities that certain AI programs can assist in fulfilling. The nonprofit Tarjimly aims to use an AI-powered platform to connect refugees with volunteer translators. The organization’s AI tool also gives real-time translation, which the human volunteers can revise for accuracy.

A man in a blue t-shirt points to the screen of a laptop opened on a white table in front of a large poster. — Tarjimly co-founder Atif Javed presents his app at the Google Impact Summit on Sept. 4, 2024, in Sunnyvale, Calif. AP Photo/Juliana Yamada

This dual focus on respecting creators’ rights while fulfilling duties to other people illustrates how deontological ethics can guide ethical AI use.

AI’s implications

Another approach comes from consequentialism, a philosophy that evaluates actions by their outcomes. This perspective shifts focus from individuals’ rights and responsibilities to AI’s broader effects. Do the potential boons of generative AI justify the economic and cultural impact? Is AI advancing innovation at the expense of creative livelihoods?

This ethical tension of weighing benefits and harms drives current debates – and lawsuits. Organizations such as Getty Images have taken legal action to protect human contributors’ work from unauthorized AI training. Some platforms that use AI to create images, such as DeviantArt and Shutterstock, are offering artists options to opt out or receive compensation, a shift toward recognizing creative rights in the AI era.

The implications of adopting AI extend far beyond individual creators’ rights and could fundamentally reshape creative industries. Publishing, entertainment and design sectors face unprecedented automation, which could affect workers along the entire production pipeline, from conceptualization to distribution.

These disruptions have sparked significant resistance. In 2023, for example, labor unions for screenwriters and actors initiated strikes that brought Hollywood productions to a halt.

A consequentialist approach, however, compels us to look beyond immediate economic threats, or individuals’ rights and responsibilities, to examine AI’s broader societal impact. From this wider perspective, consequentialism suggests that concerns about social harms must be balanced with potential societal benefits.

Two male doctors in white coats and face masks stand looking at a complex graphic on two computer screens in front of them. — Medical care and drug development stand to benefit from AI – but not without problems. cofotoisme/E+ via Getty Images

Sophisticated AI tools are already transforming fields such as scientific research, accelerating drug discovery and climate change solutions. In education, AI supports personalized learning for struggling students. Small businesses and entrepreneurs in developing regions can now compete globally by accessing professional-level capabilities once reserved for larger enterprises.

Even artists need to weigh the pros and cons of AI’s impact: It’s not just negative. AI has given rise to new ways to express creativity, such as AI-generated music and visual art. These technologies enable complex compositions and visuals that might be challenging to produce by hand – making it an especially valuable collaborator for artists with disabilities.

Character for the AI era

Virtue ethics, the third approach, asks how using AI shapes who users become as professionals and people. Unlike approaches that focus on rules or consequences, this framework centers on character and judgment.

Recent cases illustrate what’s at stake. A lawyer’s reliance on AI-generated legal citations led to court sanctions, highlighting how automation can erode professional diligence. In health care, discovering racial bias in medical AI chatbots forced providers to confront how automation might compromise their commitment to equitable care.

These failures reveal a deeper truth: Mastering AI requires cultivating sound judgment. Lawyers’ professional integrity demands that they verify AI-generated claims. Doctors’ commitment to patient welfare requires questioning AI recommendations that might perpetuate bias. Each decision to use or reject AI tools shapes not just immediate outcomes but professional character.

Individual workers often have limited control over how their workplaces implement AI, so it is all the more important that professional organizations develop clear guidelines. What’s more, individuals need space to maintain professional integrity within their employers’ rules to exercise their own sound judgment.

Beyond asking “Can AI do this task?” organizations should consider how its implementation could affect workers’ professional judgment and practice. Right now, technology is evolving faster than collective wisdom in using it, making deliberate reflection and virtue-driven practice more essential than ever.

Charting a path forward

Each of these three ethical frameworks illuminates different aspects of our society’s AI dilemma.

Rights-based thinking highlights our obligations to creators whose work trains AI systems. Consequentialism reveals both the broader benefits of AI democratization and its potential threats, including to creative livelihoods. Virtue ethics shows how individual choices about AI shape not just outcomes but professional character.

Together, these perspectives suggest that ethical AI use requires more than new guidelines. It requires rethinking how creative work is valued.

The debate about AI often feels like a battle between innovation and tradition. But this framing misses the real challenge: developing approaches that honor both human creativity and technological progress and allow them to enhance each other. At its core, that balance depends on values.

Leo S. Lo, Dean and Professor, College of University Libraries and Learning Sciences, University of New Mexico

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

STM Daily News is a vibrant news blog dedicated to sharing the brighter side of human experiences. Emphasizing positive, uplifting stories, the site focuses on delivering inspiring, informative, and well-researched content. With a commitment to accurate, fair, and responsible journalism, STM Daily News aims to foster a community of readers passionate about positive change and engaged in meaningful conversations. Join the movement and explore stories that celebrate the positive impacts shaping our world.

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News

Nissan Reduces Pricing for 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder: A Commitment to Value?

Published

5 hours ago

April 6, 2025

Rod Washington

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – In a move that signifies its dedication to customer satisfaction and value, Nissan has announced significant reductions in the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for two of its most popular models, the 2025 Rogue and 2025 Pathfinder. This strategic decision comes at a time when many consumers are navigating a challenging car-buying landscape, making affordability a key factor in their purchasing decisions.

Lower Prices for Greater Accessibility

The pricing adjustments span across all grades for both the Rogue and Pathfinder, reflecting Nissan’s commitment to ensuring that more customers can access quality vehicles without straining their budget. With rising costs affecting many households, these reductions are not just a reactive measure but a proactive step in continuing to provide exceptional value.

The 2025 Rogue, known for its versatility and efficient performance, will now appeal even more to families and individuals alike who prioritize both style and functionality in their vehicles. Meanwhile, the Pathfinder, a reliable and spacious SUV, caters to those needing extra room for travel, adventures, or daily commutes.

Why This Matters

For many buyers, feeling secure about their investment in a vehicle is paramount, especially when purchasing in today’s economic climate. By lowering the MSRP, Nissan aims to make the Rogue and Pathfinder not only more accessible but also more appealing as options in the competitive SUV market.

The decision to reduce prices aligns with Nissan’s larger strategy to maintain its customer-centric approach, fostering long-term relationships with buyers by ensuring they receive value for their investment.

What to Expect

As detailed in Nissan’s recent press release, prospective buyers can look forward to more competitive pricing as they explore their options. The enhanced value proposition of the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder aims to provide customers with quality vehicles that meet their needs without compromising on features or reliability.

While specific pricing details were not fully disclosed in the press release, interested customers are encouraged to visit their local dealerships or check the official Nissan website for the latest updates and MSRP listings.

Conclusion

With the 2025 Rogue and Pathfinder, Nissan is not just reducing prices; it’s reaffirming its commitment to providing accessible, quality vehicles for all. By prioritizing affordability, Nissan continues to lead the way in understanding and addressing the needs of its customers in a rapidly changing market.

Stay updated on further developments and insights as Nissan continues to innovate and respond to the needs of car buyers everywhere. Whether you’re in the market for a spacious family SUV or a versatile crossover, Nissan’s latest offerings provide a compelling reason to consider these models.

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Automotive

The Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi: Nissan Frontier

Exciting news! The Nissan Frontier has been crowned the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” at the 2025 Mississippi Makers’ Challenge! Manufactured in Canton and powered by cutting-edge technology, this remarkable vehicle showcases top-notch craftsmanship and innovation. Proud to celebrate our local talent! #NissanFrontier #CoolestThing #MississippiMakers #Innovation

Published

23 hours ago

April 5, 2025

Rod Washington

2025 Nissan Frontier. Image Credit: Nissan Motors

CANTON, Miss. – The Nissan Frontier has earned the prestigious title of the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” by winning the 2025 Mississippi Makers’ Challenge, an event organized by the Mississippi Manufacturers Association. This accolade highlights the Frontier’s exceptional craftsmanship and innovative features that set it apart in the competitive automotive market.

Manufactured at Nissan’s state-of-the-art facility in Canton, Mississippi, the Frontier showcases the dedication and expertise of the skilled workforce in the region. Each vehicle is meticulously assembled, combining quality engineering with contemporary design to meet the needs of today’s drivers.

Powering the Frontier are robust engines built at Nissan’s powertrain plant in Decherd, Tennessee, further adding to the vehicle’s impressive performance and reliability. The collaboration between these two locations reflects Nissan’s commitment to supporting local economies while producing high-quality vehicles that American customers have come to love.

The recognition of the Nissan Frontier as the “Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi” is not just a win for Nissan; it underscores the rich manufacturing heritage of the state and the remarkable talent within its workforce. As Nissan continues to innovate and evolve, the Frontier stands as a testament to what can be achieved when craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology.

With this accolade, the Nissan Frontier solidifies its place as a top choice for adventure enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, proving that great things can indeed come from Mississippi.

Link to the Nissan Press Release: The Coolest Thing Made in Mississippi: Nissan Frontier

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amusement and theme parks

Six Flags Magic Mountain Bids Farewell to Superman: Escape from Krypton

Published

1 day ago

April 5, 2025

Rebecca Washington

In a bittersweet announcement, Six Flags Magic Mountain has confirmed the permanent closure of Superman: Escape from Krypton, once celebrated as the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world. The decision comes after the ride, which has been out of operation since September, faced an insurmountable challenge due to a “lethal dose of kryptonite”—or in less whimsical terms, the unavailability of necessary parts for refurbishment.

Magic Mountain President Jeff Harris shared insights with the Orange County Register, explaining that the ride was initially taken offline for routine maintenance. However, as the needed components did not materialize in a timely manner, the park deemed it more practical to close the iconic coaster permanently rather than leave enthusiasts in limbo.

Superman: Escape from Krypton was renowned for its thrilling experience, featuring two L-shaped tracks that soared upwards, promising an adrenaline rush like no other. Riders would be catapulted from a standstill to a blistering 100 mph in just seven seconds, reaching heights of 415 feet. It was a must-ride attraction for thrill-seekers visiting the park.

As for the future of the now vacant queue, station, and launch track, Six Flags has yet to announce any specific plans. However, fans of the park can take solace in the fact that the nearby Lex Luthor: Drop of Doom, which shares its tower with the Superman coaster, will remain operational and is set to reopen next month.

The closure of Superman has sparked a wave of sentiment among roller coaster enthusiasts, particularly on platforms like Reddit, where many have expressed their disappointment. For numerous fans, Superman was more than just a ride; it was a highlight of their amusement park experience.

Despite this loss, Magic Mountain still boasts an impressive lineup of 19 roller coasters, maintaining its title as the amusement park with the highest number of coasters in the world. Looking ahead, a new roller coaster is slated to debut in 2026, which will restore the park’s count back to 20.

Originally opened as Superman: The Escape in 1997, the coaster underwent a significant transformation in 2011, being rebranded as Superman: Escape from Krypton. This revamp flipped the ride vehicles, allowing thrill-seekers to launch backward while facing towards the ground, enhancing the heart-pounding experience of the descent.

Even though Superman has left the tracks, fans can still encounter the Man of Steel in other forms within the park, including on the Justice League: Battle for Metropolis dark ride and through character meet-and-greet opportunities.

As the park moves forward, the memory of Superman: Escape from Krypton will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of many who experienced its exhilarating ride. Magic Mountain continues to be a haven for roller coaster enthusiasts, promising exciting adventures for years to come.

Author

Rebecca Washington

Rebecca Jo is a mother of four and is a creative soul from Phoenix, Arizona, who also enjoys new adventures. Rebecca Jo has a passion for the outdoors and indulges in activities like camping, fishing, hunting and riding roller coasters. She is married to Rod Washington View all posts