80-136 HW 6

Email me your assignment by 12:00 Monday, 8/13.

Choose one of the following:

1. Watch the film A.I. Does David deserve to have the same moral status of the human boy he "replaced"? Give an argument, and consider objections, etc. Are his machine counterparts justified in their objections?


2. Read the Bicenntenial Man. Does Andrew deserve to be granted his request from the world council? Give an argument, and consider objections, etc. At what stage in his development does the issue turn, if it turns at all? (Note: you may also watch the movie, but I think Asimov's story is better.)

Be sure to consider the following considerations when making defending your claims:

• the criterion for status (e.g., Bentham, Kant, etc.)


• ability to do moral reasoning and take moral responsibility


• any points from our readings should be credited
• human concerns (e.g., utilitarian)


• social context


• public policy implications

Don't spend too much time on this assignment...focus on your projects.