CSC 191 – Special Topics: Ethics of Emerging Technologies (3 credit hours)
Topics in computer science that are not covered in regular courses or that give special practice in skills used in other courses. Not to be counted toward the bachelor of science in computer science. May be repeated for up to 6 hours if the topic changes.
New technologies are on the horizon and quickly becoming part of our lives. Generative AI can write text, produce pictures, and even generate code with a simple prompt. Deepfakes can create increasingly convincing fake videos. Brain-computer interfaces promise new possibilities of thought and perception, and the metaverse could fabricate new realities. What can we do to ensure that these technologies emerge in ways that benefit humanity? Students will develop an ethical toolkit to diagnose the ethical implications of emerging technologies and seek ways to craft a more ethical future. Our ultimate goal will be to chart a path for several technologies that preserves their promise while avoiding their potential pitfalls.
Learning Objectives
By taking this course, students will become better able to:
- Understand and apply key concepts related to philosophy, ethics, and emerging technologies.
- Identify, articulate, and critically evaluate ethical issues arising from emerging technologies.
- Evaluate and construct practical solutions to ethical problems.
- Communicate philosophical arguments in both written and oral formats.
- Cultivate virtues of character that promote a balanced approach toward emerging technologies.
First Session Course:
- TR, 9:00AM-10:40PM, Online – Synchronous & Asynchronous, Cochran