Webb Keane, an anthropologist known for his work on human morality, discusses how our ethics are influenced by non-human entities like animals, robots, and deities. He explores fascinating topics such as the historical practice of putting animals on trial and the evolving moral responsibilities we hold towards them. Keane also delves into the implications of AI in today’s world, comparing our perception of technology to ancient sacrificial practices. This conversation challenges listeners to rethink their relationships with all forms of intelligence beyond humanity.
Human relationships with animals, robots, and gods profoundly influence our moral frameworks, especially in the context of advancing technology like AI.
Cultural perspectives significantly dictate views on moral responsibility toward non-human entities, highlighting varied ethical interpretations across societies.
Deep dives
Human Relationships with Non-Humans
Humans have longstanding relationships with entities that are not fully human, including animals, robots, and deities. These relationships evoke both fascination and anxiety, particularly as technology progresses. The dynamics of these interactions shape our ethical considerations, especially concerning artificial intelligence. This ongoing history of connecting with near-human entities influences how society defines and addresses moral dilemmas associated with advancements in AI.
Anthropology's Unique Approach to Ethics
Anthropology approaches ethical questions differently than philosophy or politics, emphasizing real-world applicability over abstract theory. Anthropologists engage with diverse communities to understand how people navigate moral anxieties arising from their lives. This involves stepping outside familiar environments to grasp varying cultural perspectives on what it means to be human. By focusing on specific, lived experiences, anthropology highlights the complexities of morality as shaped by local customs and beliefs.
Cultural Variations in Moral Responsibility
Cultural perspectives fundamentally shape views on moral responsibility concerning animals and sacrifices. For instance, some cultures view animal sacrifice as necessary within spiritual practices, while others consider it morally objectionable. The relationship people have with animals reflects deeper societal values and obligations, as evident in historical practices where animals were once tried for crimes. Contemporary moral frameworks continue to evolve, leading to varying interpretations of what constitutes ethical treatment.
Perceptions of Robots in Different Cultures
Perceptions of robots differ greatly between cultures, particularly between Japan and Western societies. In Japan, robots are often seen as benign and integrated into daily life, closely tied to cultural traditions that accept artificiality and naturalness. This contrasts with Western anxieties about AI, where fear often centers on the potential dangers posed by intelligent machines. Understanding these cultural contexts can clarify broader themes surrounding ethics and technology in a globalized world.
Since the dawn of humanity, our sense of ourselves has been shaped by things that seem human - or nearly human - but are not. From sacrificial animals to household pets, ancient gods to future technologies like robots and AI, human ethics was, is and will continue to be profoundly influenced by its relationship with intelligences other than our own. What moral responsibility do we have toward the prey that we hunt and the machines that clean our homes? Why did medieval Europeans put pigs and cats on trial, and what can the Delphic Oracle tell us about ChatGPT? Anthropologist Webb Keane takes us beyond the boundaries of the human world in this episode to answer these questions and more.