Q&A · 4:10:44-4:11:01

Automated driving and ethical programming

A passenger-versus-pedestrian dilemma receives an answer focused on detecting the danger beforehand.

Question

How should an automated car decide between protecting pedestrians and passengers in a crash?

Short answer

The programming dilemma is acknowledged, with the emphasis on detecting the developing danger beforehand.

Notes

Automated systems require decisions about responding when different people face danger. The driverless-car example asks whether pedestrians or passengers should receive priority. No rule for choosing between them is supplied. The preferred response is to detect the danger before that emergency develops.