Grounding Machine Ethics within the Natural System

Abstract

This chapter explores machine ethics within the larger context of the natural system from which it springs. While computing power and computing machines have grown exponentially since the twentieth century, the foundation for this growth is the planet's natural resources, which may not be able to sustain this type of continual exponential growth. This chapter explores some of the basic natural limiting factors that may prohibit computing power if solutions are not found. Specifically, the chapter explores limitations from: population growth, e-waste, rare earth minerals, water, oil, and energy production. Within this context, possible solutions for producing machines ethically are briefly explored.