Artificial Intelligence Systems and Humans in Decision Making: Not Better or Worse but Better Together
In conversations about the military use of artificial intelligence (AI), I am frequently presented with the following question: might AI systems be better than humans at complying with international humanitarian law (IHL) in military decisions on the use of force?
There are differing perspectives on this matter, but they all share at least two features. First, they offer a binary depiction of the human and machine either as “better” or “worse” in implementing IHL. Second, they assume that the use of an AI system must be evaluated based on the system’s ability to pass a human standard set by IHL. This premise underpins the many analyses of whether AI systems can adhere to IHL rules and principles on the conduct of hostilities, such as the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution.