Ethics in AI and Earth Observation: Many Worlds and Many World-Views

Ethics can be both relative and contextual. Undoubtedly, there are several Universally applicable principles of ethics. However, depending on who is applying these principles and what method is used for their application to a situation, the outcomes can be very different. An additional challenge arises in context of emerging technologies: not all ethical duties, principles, issues, and associated consequences can be identified in the present. Developing and implementing a diversity of approaches for ethical decision-making with a futuristic and multicultural outlook is, therefore, crucial for ethically mindful technological growth. With several examples from AI, Earth Observation (EO), and AI4EO research, this talk will discuss how various Worlds and World Views can impact ethical decision-making. It further leads us through a fascinating exploration of imageries associated with Skanda, a mythological figure that appears in both Indian (Hindu) and Tibetan (Buddhist) philosophies. The talk concludes by discussing how this rich imagery can used to develop and implement a novel approach to ethical decision-making in the early stages of AI and EO research.