From Autonomy to Accountability: Envisioning AI’s Legal Personhood

Abstract

This paper critically examines the concept of granting legal personhood to artificial intelligence (AI) systems, addressing the challenges and implications within the context of evolving legal and societal frameworks. It navigates through the historical understanding of personhood, the ethical considerations posed by advanced AI capabilities, and the philosophical underpinnings of AI’s potential roles and responsibilities in society. By proposing a hypothetical scenario where AI is recognized with specific legal attributes, the study highlights the need for dynamic legal frameworks, international collaboration, and ethical AI development to ensure laws remain relevant and effective. The conclusion advocates for a multidisciplinary approach to crafting adaptable legal structures that acknowledge AI’s unique contributions to society while safeguarding human dignity and societal welfare, urging forward-looking policies that balance technological innovation with ethical and legal integrity.