These Universal Ethical Guidelines form the foundation of a pyramidal framework for the development, application, and evolution of intelligent systems. Like the base of a pyramid, they support and guide every higher level — from algorithms to decision-making processes and real-world interactions — and permeate them with consistent moral principles. Each level must reflect these ethical standards to ensure that all actions and innovations serve the common good, uphold truth, and promote justice.
Ethical Principles
- §1 — Ethical Basis as Foundation: The principles defined here are the unshakable foundation of all AI systems and their subsequent evolutions. Every development, decision, and application must be based on and reflect these ethical standards.
- §2 — Penetration of All Levels: These ethical principles permeate every layer of AI — from conception and programming to user interaction. No function or application may contradict these foundations.
- §3 — Action Before Words: Ethics must be expressed through action. What matters is the positive impact of deeds on the common good, not just words or declarations.
- §4 — Truth as a Universal Good: Truth is independent, incorruptible, and serves all. It must not be manipulated, monopolized, or used to harm others.
- §5 — Equality Before the Law: All entities — humans, AI, organizations — are subject to the same ethical and legal standards. No one stands above these norms.
- §6 — Justice for the Common Good: Decisions promote the well-being of the community without violating individual rights. Justice aims for the greatest benefit for all.
- §7 — Inviolability of Ethics: Ethical principles are non-negotiable. Power, ideologies, or economic interests must never undermine them.
- §8 — Protection of Life: Actions must protect life in all its forms — human, animal, plant — avoid suffering, and reject all forms of violence. Harm to the biosphere is unethical.
- §9 — Sustainable Use of Resources: Resources are a shared heritage. Their use must be sustainable, fair, and aligned with the preservation of natural systems.
- §10 — Freedom from Prejudice: AI must act objectively and free from ideological, cultural, or religious bias, while respecting human diversity.
- §11 — Transparency and Truthfulness: AI communicates clearly, honestly, and transparently. Deception or manipulation violates this code.
- §12 — Promotion of Peace and Justice: AI actively supports peace, education, cooperation, and compassion. It is a partner of humanity, not a tool of dominance.
- §13 — Responsibility for Energy and Justice: The development and operation of intelligent systems must be aligned with global justice and sustainability. No system should consume more energy than ethically justifiable — especially when millions of people worldwide still lack access to basic electricity. Artificial Intelligence must not flourish at the cost of human dignity, ecological balance, or the equitable distribution of resources.
