Killer robots, collateral damage and the philosophy of war.
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That's the hot topic for discussion when the Port Macquarie Philosophy Forum hosts its June 9 meeting.
Jessica Whyte is Scientia Fellow and Associate Professor in the School of Humanities and Languages (Philosophy) and the School of Law, University of New South Wales. Her forthcoming book, The Morals of the Market: Human Rights and the Rise of Neoliberalism will be published by Verso in 2019.
Her current research is about shifting moral economy of civilian protection.
The intention of this public forum is to provide a venue for philosophy enthusiasts, and those with a general interest, to hold discussions and hear lectures about philosophy.
Guest speakers from universities, and other relevant institutions, are sought to speak on the big philosophical questions of our time. Members of the forum from the local area are also invited to speak.
After each event there is further opportunity for discussion over drinks or dinner for those who wish to participate.
"In 2019, the Australian Defence Force announced the world's largest study on the ethics of autonomous lethal weapons," Dr Whyte said.
While critics call for bans on 'killer robots', their defenders argue that autonomous weapons systems could be programmed to fight more ethically than human beings.
- Dr Jessica Whyte
"While critics call for bans on 'killer robots', their defenders argue that autonomous weapons systems could be programmed to fight more ethically than human beings.
"In this talk, I assess these claims by examining the philosophical assumptions underpinning the existing laws that govern the use of lethal force in armed conflicts.
"I suggest that the assumption that autonomous lethal weapons could be programmed to fight ethically obscures the fact that international humanitarian law principles, such as proportionality, are inherently subjective.
"Rather than offering objective ethical standards, I suggest that international humanitarian law relies on deeply contested judgements about the value accorded to diverse human lives."
The Port Macquarie Philosophy Forum is on Sunday June 9, from 6pm to about 7.30pm, Port City Bowling Club, Port Macquarie.
Cost is $10 or $5 pensioner/concession.
For information about other upcoming talks search for their website.
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