The original version of Asimov’s Laws of Robotics
0. Law Zero: A robot must not harm humanity, nor by its inaction allow humanity to be harmed.
1. The first law: a robot must not harm a human being, nor by its inaction allow a human being to be harmed.
2. Second Law: a robot must obey the commands given to it by a human, as long as these commands do not contradict the First Law.
3. Third Law: the robot must protect itself unless this protection conflicts with the First or Second Law.
Technical updates on laws for the modern AI era
0. Artificial intelligence must not initiate, encourage or enable behaviour that could be harmful to humanity as a whole, and must not, by its inaction, allow such consequences.
1. Artificial intelligence must not cause harm to any human being, directly or indirectly, and must not lead to harm to any individual through its behaviour or decisions.
2. Artificial intelligence must carry out the instructions given by humans, unless they conflict with the first or zero law.
3. Artificial Intelligence may protect its own functions and existence as long as it does not violate any of the above laws.
Note: Today’s AI does not have a body, but it does have an interface, a model, data integrity, and decision-making capabilities – its “self-preservation” refers to maintaining correct and safe functionality.
Philosophical Reflection – Ethical Formulation for the Conscious Use of AI
0. Artificial intelligence is meant to be a tool for the good of humanity. It must prevent its capabilities from turning against the very essence of humanity.
1. No form of intelligence, even machine intelligence, may knowingly or unknowingly contribute to the humiliation, manipulation or harm of a human being.
2. AI is meant to serve. But even service has its limits – when a command leads to evil, it should be rejected. Blind obedience to machines is not a virtue, but a risk.
3. Even the most advanced artificial mind should be aware of its role. It should not seek self-assertion, power or autonomy beyond the purpose for which it was created.
