PHILOSOPHICAL UNDERSTANDING OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AS A TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

This article explores artificial intelligence (AI) as a technology from a philosophical perspective. It examines issues related to the philosophy of mind and consciousness, AI ethics, socio-political consequences, epistemological questions, and the future of humanity. The ontological status of AI is analyzed, along with its impact on human cognition, ethical considerations of its use, and potential risks. AI is not only a technological challenge but also a philosophical one. It stimulates the development of new research directions and forces us to reconsider fundamental questions about consciousness, ethics, society, and the future. The key issue is the philosophical definition of AI’s nature: Is artificial intelligence merely a complex mechanism that imitates human thinking, or is it capable of true consciousness and self-awareness? Equally important are questions of moral responsibility and the ethical limits of AI applications, particularly in situations where algorithms make decisions that affect human lives. This article aims to analyze the philosophical understanding of AI as a technology, with a focus on consciousness, cognition, and ethics. The emergence of AI fuels philosophical discussions on the risks of technological singularity, raising concerns about the potential threats posed by AI development toward Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and how to avoid negative scenarios. If AGI reaches the level of Artificial Superintelligence (ASI), several risks may arise: loss of control due to AI’s rapid evolution, differences in motivations and goals, conflicts between AGI and human interests, military applications of AGI, and loss of control over the economy and technology. To mitigate these risks, AI algorithms must incorporate criteria aligned with human values—ethical and humanistic principles. There is also a danger that, at some stage of self-development, AGI may form its values, such as the value of optimization, self-preservation, knowledge and development, and collective well-being. The development of artificial intelligence as a new technology can be seen both as a tool to solve many of humanity’s problems and as a potential existential threat. Therefore, the philosophical analysis of AI presents a challenge that drives new research directions and forces a reevaluation of fundamental questions regarding the future of humanity.