Are superintelligent robots entitled to human rights?

Abstract

This paper considers relatively long-term possibilities for the future relationship between humans and superintelligent robots (SRs). The great technological developments in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and computer science have made it quite likely that we will see the advent of SRs towards the end of this century (or somewhat later). If SRs have a higher moral and legal status than typical adult human beings based on their greater psychological capacities, then they should also be entitled to human rights. However, even though SRs might be entitled to stronger moral and legal rights for this reason, it might nonetheless be necessary to limit their (otherwise justified) claims to avoid causing human beings to become extinct or endangered. The paper provides an argument in support of SRs' claims to human rights but also warns about the socio-political, moral and legal implications of taking such a step.