Definition & Introduction
An ethical framework is a heuristic tool that can be used by individuals or organizations to make better-informed decisions that have moral implications. Tools of this kind can take many forms: decision-making models, codes of conduct, an established set of principles or guidelines, training programs, and more.
Ethics is often viewed through a philosophical, academic, or abstract lens. But as Carnegie Council President Joel Rosenthal writes, applied ethics is an active process for finding solutions to real-world issues. Ethical frameworks can move ethics out of a theoretical or hypothetical space, and into our daily lives by offering a guide for a more structured, reflective, transparent, and logical basis for decision-making.
For examples of ethical frameworks developed by Carnegie Council and other trusted institutions, explore the resources below.
The Trade-offs of AI in Diplomacy
The Carnegie Ethics Accelerator brought together experts from diplomatic organizations, academic institutions, and the tech sector to explore the ethical dynamics resulting from the use of large language models (LLMs) in diplomacy. As a first step, the working group published a communiqué that identifies six trade-offs that LLMs implicate in this context such as:
- A new vector of attack
- A loss of transparency, traceability, and accountability
- A rise in inequality
The document proposed that "ethical institutions deliberately and continuously study the trade-offs involved in their choices" and outlines some of the most pressing trade-offs identified during the convening.
CREDIT: Jonathan Kemper (Unsplash)
AI Task Suitability Framework
In a follow-up Accelerator convening on LLMs in diplomacy, participants were asked to select one of the trade-offs identified in the communiqué above and develop a proposal to address some of the relevant concerns. One such proposal for the skill fade trade-off emphasized the importance of clearly delineating between tasks where AI is and is not appropriate.
The following framework was developed with that goal in mind and is meant to support diplomatic organizations that are analyzing whether LLMs could be suitable for a given task.
Ethics & Decision-Making Resources
OCT 19, 2022 • Podcast
How to Be an Ethical Individual in an Interconnected World, with Michael Schur
MAY 28, 2024 • Article
Addressing the Human Tragedy in the Darién Gap: A Call for Innovative Solutions
With hundreds of thousands of migrants making the dangerous trek through the Darién Gap each year, MIMC could offer new solutions, writes Susie Han.
JUL 24, 2023 • Article
Building Space Security through Sustainability and Ethics
Visiting Fellow Zhanna L. Malekos Smith discusses U.S.-UK space and cyber policy and the ethics and sustainability concerns around "counterspace" weapons.
A Holistic Framework for International Mobility
The Model International Mobility Convention (MIMC) offers a system for migration that addresses gaps in international mobility law. It outlines a cumulative set of actions, rights, and duties that benefit both migrants and refugees as well as their states of origin, transit, and destination.
The MIMC is a framework that seeks to better protect the rights of all persons crossing international borders.
More ethical framework resources
A Framework for the International Governance of AI
Carnegie Council, in collaboration with IEEE, proposes a five-part AI governance framework to enable the constructive use of AI.
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Space-Based Data Risks to Refugee Populations
Space-based data is quite useful for observing environmental conditions, but Zhanna Malekos Smith writes that it also raises privacy concerns for vulnerable populations.
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Empowering the Artemis Accords Coalition for Peace and Stability
As missions ramp up, Zhanna Malekos Smith writes that the U.S. should lead an effort with the Artemis Accords for space sustainability and security.
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Ethical Dilemmas of Space Memorial Services
Space and lunar memorial services are growing in popularity, writes Visiting Fellow Zhanna Malekos Smith. What are the ethical considerations of this practice?
Learn MoreDiscussion Questions
- What is a problem you're facing—whether at work, school, or at home—that could make use of an ethical framework?
- If you had to put that framework on paper, what would it look like?
- What difficulties do you anticipate in applying that framework to your own life?
- How important are ethical frameworks in corporate governance and business settings?
- What role, if any, should ethical frameworks take on to enable effective leadership?
- What frameworks should be developed and utilized to support positive outcomes in emerging technology, healthcare, climate, and governance spaces?
- What are some of the pros and cons of implementing Codes of Conduct?
- What are the characteristics of an effective and meaningful Code of Conduct?
For more on the practical application of ethics, subscribe to the Carnegie Ethics Newsletter
Additional Resources
IEEE's Ethics Framework Database
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) consolidated their ethics frameworks into this library for reference.
ExploreEthical Framework for Climate Intervention
The American Geophysical Union (AGU) developed a code of conduct to guide ethical climate interventions that may be required to address emissions reduction.
ReadEthical Decision Making for Investment Professionals
The CFA Institute developed an ethical framework to guide investment professionals as they resolve ethical dilemmas in the best interests of their clients.
ReadA Framework for Ethical Tech
Based on its State of Ethics and Trust in Technology report, Deloitte outlines the Technology Trust Ethics (TTE) Framework for organizations to reputational or financial damage resulting from the use of emerging technologies.
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