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Article
Artificial Intelligence and Interspecific Law
Science
  • Daniel J. Gervais, Vanderbilt University Law School
  • John J. Nay, The Center for Legal Informatics, Stanford University
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
9-1-2023
Keywords
  • artificial intelligence,
  • singularity,
  • law,
  • AI governance
Disciplines
Abstract

Several experts have warned about artificial intelligence (AI) exceeding human capabilities, a “singularity” at which it might evolve beyond human control. Whether this will ever happen is a matter of conjecture. A legal singularity is afoot, however: For the first time, nonhuman entities that are not directed by humans may enter the legal system as a new “species” of legal subjects. This possibility of an “interspecific” legal system provides an opportunity to consider how AI might be built and governed. We argue that the legal system may be more ready for AI agents than many believe. Rather than attempt to ban development of powerful AI, wrapping of AI in legal form could reduce undesired AI behavior by defining targets for legal action and by providing a research agenda to improve AI governance, by embedding law into AI agents, and by training AI compliance agents.

Citation Information
Daniel J. Gervais and John J. Nay. "Artificial Intelligence and Interspecific Law" Science Vol. 382 (2023) p. 376 ISSN: 1095-9203
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/daniel_gervais/105/