The ethics of artificial intelligence: philosophical and practical approaches

This course explores key ethical issues in AI. Students will be equipped with critical tools to assess fairness, security, and inclusivity in AI applications within global contexts. We will engage in debate, analysis, and ethical inquiry to this end.
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  • Start Date: 06 May 2026
    End Date: 10 Jun 2026
    Wed (Daytime): 10:30 - 12:30
    In Person
    Location: Keeley Street
    Duration: 6 sessions (over 6 weeks)
    Course Code: HP232
    Tutors:  Ovett Nwosimiri
    Full fee £179.00 Senior fee £143.00 Concession £116.00
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SKU
238259
Full fee £179.00 Senior fee £143.00 Concession £116.00

What is the course about?

At the centre of most modern discussion is Artificial Intelligence; commonly known as AI. AI is becoming a significant force behind social change and is poised to be the game-changing technology of our time. This course is an introductory course to the Ethics of AI. In this course, we will explore the ethical challenges posed by AI, focusing on their impact on human decision-making. AI, as defined by Fabio Morandin-Ahuerma (2022), is the capacity of a computer system or machine to simulate and carry out operations like learning, problem-solving, and logical reasoning that would typically need human intelligence. AI has gained significant attention from both academics and the general public. It has revolutionized the way we do things, driving significant social and economic changes. As a result, authorities, specialists, and ethicists are attempting to comprehend the effect of AI as well as ways to encourage its advancement.

AI raises a variety of ethical questions, including those related to bias, privacy, responsibility, transparency, and the possibility of employment displacement. This course critically examines the use of AI, and its existing guidelines, questioning whether they genuinely influence decision-making. In this course, students will engage with key ethical issues in AI, develop critical thinking skills, and formulate their own perspectives on the fair and ethical use of AI. Given the rapid evolution of AI ethics, this module offers a dynamic and thought-provoking exploration of how ethical principles can shape AI’s role in society.

What will we cover?

• Ethics
• AI
• Ethics of AI
• Ethical Issues in AI.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

• Understand the ethics of AI.
• Understand the ethical challenges in the development and implementation of AI and assess their actual impact on decision-making.
• Use philosophical and ethical theories to critically analyze key issues in the ethics of AI.
• Construct critical arguments on the ethics of AI.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

The purpose of this course is to prepare students for the discourse on the Ethics of AI. Therefore, all that is needed is a receptive mind, the ability to think critically, engage with the materials for intellectual discussions, and be prepared to consider and pay attention to the views and positions of other students that are totally different from yours. This is more important than specific levels of skill.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Various topics will be introduced in each online session. Some of the assigned readings will be presented in PowerPoint format at each session. To better grasp the materials, a critical and intellectual discussion is encouraged during these sessions. Students are encouraged to search the internet for extra readings in addition to the assigned texts.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

A pen and paper may be useful for jotting down ideas.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Please check City Lit's website for up to date information about forthcoming courses in philosophy.

Ovett Nwosimiri

Ovett Nwosimiri has a PhD in Philosophy. His research areas are in philosophy and ethics; particularly African philosophy, African epistemology, Philosophy of race, (Applied/African) Ethics, Decolonization, Comparative philosophy, (African) Political Philosophy, Epistemology, International Business and Data Analytics. He has an interest in other philosophical areas and interdisciplinary research that bridges the gap between philosophy, business, and AI (technology) and that addresses the challenges and opportunities of the digital age in a responsible and inclusive manner. He is a Research Associate at the African Institute for Epistemology and Philosophy of Science (ACEPS), University of Johannesburg.

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.