A White Paper Discussing Ethical Considerations for Autonomous Vehicles

Abstract

Autonomous systems (a category which includes AVs) have been proposed for use in multiple domains, with examples including nuclear containment, defence systems, health and transport. In this paper we discuss the ethical landscape surrounding the introduction and operation of autonomous vehicles as a form of transport on the public road network. Use of autonomous vehicles in other domains (e.g. as a defence capability or a form of medical transport) is likely to impose ethical requirements which go beyond the scope of this document, and for which we refer the reader to existing literature. The primary focus of this white paper will be on the intersection of safety and ethics for AVs. However, we note that any recommendations for the ethical introduction and operation of AVs should also consider issues such as wealth equality, manufacturing practices and environmental impact