Autonomous Weapon Systems – Ethical-Related Challenges
Autonomous Weapon Systems – Ethical-Related Challenges

Summary/Abstract: The proliferation of artificial intelligence in the art of war introduces unprecedented challenges, prompting a critical examination of its impact on the moral action and responsibility of the parties involved. Thus, the use of autonomous weapon systems, capable of making decisions without direct human intervention, or even lethal ones of this type, is presented as a solution that can make a difference, both in present situations and, especially, in future ones. However, the solution is, from many perspectives, far from being a simplistic one, the situation being subject to debate, in relation to the international humanitarian law standards and the UN, NATO or even national ethical guidelines on autonomous weapons. Some of the perspectives of this debate, focusing not only on the definition of autonomy but also on distinction, proportionality and precaution, as fundamental ethical principles, are presented in this article. To meet the stated goal, the main research method employed is document analysis.

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