News
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.
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.
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.
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.
recipes
Cozy Up with Comforting Soups and Stews
Comforting Soups and Stews: As temperatures drop, few meals warm you from the inside out quite like Beef Stew with Rice or Hearty Rice Minestrone Soup. These comforting favorites deliver delicious flavor to the family table, and better yet, they don’t require much time in the kitchen, making them particularly practical for busy weekdays.
Cozy Up with Comforting Soups and Stews
(Feature Impact) As temperatures drop, few meals warm you from the inside out quite like a hearty bowl of soup or stew. These comforting favorites deliver delicious flavor to the family table, and better yet, they don’t require much time in the kitchen, making them particularly practical for busy weekdays.
With a few convenient staples on hand, like Minute Instant White Rice, you can prepare satisfying meals in a cinch. This rice is known for its light, fluffy texture; short, easy prep; and quick cook time.
It’s made with one simple ingredient – USA-grown rice – then precooked and dried with nothing added but convenience, making it a practical addition to this classic Beef Stew and Rice recipe. Bursting with tender beef and hearty vegetables, this filling stew offers a classic option that’s both quick and comforting, ideal for saving time after school and a day in the office as the pressure cooker does the work for you.
For another cozy meal that’s pressure-cooked to perfection, Hearty Rice Minestrone Soup brings together beans, tomatoes and spices in a rustic Italian-inspired dish. It’s pure comfort and warmth in a bowl, requiring just 30 minutes total for an approachable dinner when you’re in a pinch.
An aromatic touch is added from Minute Instant Jasmine Rice, known for its distinctive scent, perfect texture and delicious taste. Sweet and buttery, it’s fast, fragrant and flavorful to help you on your mission to make quick meals so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying with loved ones.
Find more comforting meal ideas by visiting MinuteRice.com.
Beef Stew with Rice
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup Minute Instant White Rice
- fresh parsley, for garnish
- In bottom of pressure cooker, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown beef cubes on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In same pot, add onion and garlic. Saute about 2 minutes.
- Return beef to pot. Add potatoes, carrots and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Close lid and set valve to sealing. Select pressure cook or manual and set timer for 35 minutes. Once cooking time is up, let pressure release naturally about 10 minutes then carefully switch valve to venting to release remaining pressure.
- Prepare rice according to package directions.
- Open lid, stir cooked rice into stew and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Garnish with parsley.
Hearty Rice Minestrone Soup
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (19 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chopped kale
- 1 cup Minute Jasmine Rice
- 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
- Set pressure cooker to saute setting over high heat. Heat oil. Add carrot, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt and pepper; cook 3-5 minutes, or until starting to soften. Stir in broth and tomatoes.
- Lock lid and move pressure valve to sealing. Select pressure cook on high 10 minutes. Once cooking is complete, manually release pressure according to manufacturer’s instructions. Carefully remove lid.
- Set pressure cooker to saute setting over high heat; bring to boil. Stir in beans and kale; cook 2 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in rice. Set pressure cooker to warm setting. Cover and let stand 5 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan, basil and red chili flakes.
Substitutions: Use Romano beans for cannellini beans. Make vegetarian by substituting vegetable broth for chicken broth.
SOURCE:
Automotive
The New Tire-Buying Playbook: AI Insights Meet Human Advice
New Tire-Buying Playbook: A tire purchase can start with a familiar moment: a dashboard warning light, a repair shop visit, worn tread or realizing the current set is nearing a mileage milestone. When it’s time to replace tires, drivers have more ways than ever to research options, including classic search engines and AI chatbots.
The New Tire-Buying Playbook: AI Insights Meet Human Advice
(Feature Impact) A tire purchase can start with a familiar moment: a dashboard warning light, a repair shop visit, worn tread or realizing the current set is nearing a mileage milestone. When it’s time to replace tires, drivers have more ways than ever to research options.
New research from Hankook Tire’s Gauge Index Survey found drivers are utilizing multiple methods for research, from search engines and AI assistants to asking someone they trust for advice. Two-thirds of respondents said they always or often research multiple sources before buying tires, suggesting many shoppers want to weigh several opinions before deciding to buy a new set, including turning to fellow drivers.
As tools like classic search engines and AI chatbots continue to evolve, the most useful strategy for tire shopping may be less about choosing between technology and human expertise, and more about knowing how each fits into the research process. Here are a few ways drivers can confidently conduct tire research.
Start broad then narrow the search.
For many drivers, the process begins online. One-quarter of respondents said they typically begin their tire research with a search engine, the most common starting point reported in the survey. Retailer or dealer websites are the next at 16%, followed by recommendations from a mechanic at 15%.
That range of starting points reflects how personal a tire purchase can be. A search engine can help a driver organize initial questions and identify the types of information they want to compare. Retailer and dealer sites offer another place to review available options – and reviews from other drivers. A mechanic can help put the vehicle and driver’s specific needs into context.
Drivers can also use their initial search to create a short list of requirements, such as tire size, type and available warranties.
Use AI as one research tool – but not the only one.
AI is a growing part of any research. About 4 in 10 drivers (42%) said they have used an AI tool to research or compare tires more than once. Another 11% said they have not used one yet but plan to the next time they buy tires.
Conversely, just 5% of respondents said an AI assistant or chatbot would be their typical first stop when researching tires, suggesting many drivers may add AI later in the process to help sort through information or frame comparisons.
AI can help turn a general concern into a clearer list of questions. A driver might use it to identify terms to research, compare categories of information or prepare for a conversation with a retailer, dealer or repair professional.
Keep trusted people in the research loop.
Despite drivers’ increased reliance on digital tools, trusted advice is still important. More than one-quarter of drivers said they would typically begin tire research with a recommendation from a mechanic (15%) or from friends or family (12%).
Friends and family may share firsthand experiences, while a mechanic may help a driver better understand the questions that matter for their vehicle. More than 1 in 5 respondents (21%) list advice from a repair shop among the top three reasons that would prompt them to buy new tires, showing the role professional guidance can play when a purchase becomes necessary.
Find the full survey and approach your next tire research process with clearer questions, more confidence and a better sense of what matters most for the road ahead at HankookTire.com.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
STM Blog | Commentary | October 14, 2026
The viral allegations involving Texas Roadhouse and the treatment of Black customers raised an understandably disturbing question: Could diners trust that they were being served safely and respectfully?
After reviewing available coverage again on October 14, STM Daily News did not locate new verified evidence establishing that the alleged food tampering occurred. We also did not locate a publicly released final report from the outside firm the company said it hired.
The central distinction remains unchanged: the allegations have not been substantiated in the reporting reviewed, while Texas Roadhouse says its investigation points to a hoax.
What the available reporting says
In August, social media posts alleged that restaurant workers deliberately tampered with food served to Black customers. The claims circulated widely and prompted calls for a boycott. Texas Roadhouse said it had not identified current or former employees connected to the accusations.
In reporting updated August 26, KTXS noted that the viral post did not identify a particular restaurant location and that there was no verified evidence connecting the claims to a Texas Roadhouse employee.
The company told the outlet it had found no credible evidence of food tampering. It also said the original Facebook post had been deleted, some users had retracted posts amplifying the claims, and an outside firm had been engaged to investigate the accusations’ source and motives. These details come from August coverage, rather than a new October announcement.
What remains unresolved publicly
Our latest review did not locate a final outside investigation report that readers could examine. We therefore cannot describe that investigation as complete or independently assess its findings.
The company’s description of the claims as a hoax should continue to be attributed to Texas Roadhouse. Likewise, the allegations should not be repeated as though they describe a confirmed incident.
Not locating a new public report does not establish whether investigative work has continued privately. It means the public information we found does not support a stronger conclusion.
Why careful wording still matters
For Black diners, allegations of racist mistreatment can strike a painful nerve. Everyone deserves to sit down for a meal without worrying that their race could make them a target.
Taking that concern seriously requires credible complaints to be investigated thoroughly. It also requires care before assigning blame to a restaurant, a location, or its workers.
Social media can spread a warning far beyond its original audience before anyone verifies the underlying claim. Once that happens, a correction or clarification may never reach everyone who saw the accusation.
That makes transparency essential. Restaurants should explain what they have investigated and what they can substantiate. Those sharing accusations should be equally willing to share corrections and acknowledge uncertainty.
For now, the responsible position is to keep the evidence and the allegations separate. If new, verifiable findings become public, they should be assessed on their merits.
Join the conversation: What do you look for before trusting a viral warning about a business? Share your thoughts in the comments, and keep the conversation respectful.
Editor’s note: This is an October 14 status review of previously reported allegations. It does not announce a new investigative finding.
Sources
- KTXS: Viral post alleges Texas Roadhouse mistreated Black customers; company responds — Includes the company’s statement and explains the lack of verified evidence connecting the allegations to an employee or location.
- Houston Chronicle: Texas Roadhouse investigates Facebook hoax alleging racist food tampering — Covers the company’s denial and its decision to hire an outside investigative firm.
- MySA: Texas Roadhouse faces social media backlash over viral allegations — Details how the claims spread and the restaurant chain’s response.
Related reading
- Snopes: Posts claim Texas Roadhouse servers contaminated Black customers’ food — Examines the viral allegations.
- Restaurant Business: Texas Roadhouse says post alleging racist practices was a hoax — Restaurant industry coverage of the controversy.
- Texas Roadhouse official website — Company information and customer contact options.
