Drive Discrimination: An Exploration of the Impacts of Automated Vehicle Technology
Abstract
The advances in automated vehicle technology have created an opportunity for a revolution in transportation. As autonomous vehicles become more popular, however, there are potential risks related to drive discrimination that must be addressed. This article explores the concept of drive discrimination, its potential impacts, and the methods by which it may be prevented. It is concluded that drive discrimination is a real and pressing issue that must be addressed by policymakers as autonomous vehicles become increasingly prevalent.
Introduction
The development of automated vehicle technology, also known as AVs or self-driving cars, has been a major focus of research in recent years. Autonomous vehicles offer the potential for improved safety, reduced emissions, increased efficiency, and improved convenience. However, this technology also raises a number of ethical and legal concerns, one of which is the potential for drive discrimination. Drive discrimination is defined as the targeting of certain individuals or groups for unfavorable treatment based on their race, ethnicity, gender, age, or other characteristics, and it has the potential to be a serious issue if left unchecked. In order to ensure the safe deployment of autonomous vehicle technology, it is important to understand the potential impacts of drive discrimination and the methods by which it can be prevented.
Impacts of Drive Discrimination
The potential impacts of drive discrimination are significant. For instance, if certain groups of people are unfairly targeted by autonomous vehicles, it could lead to increased levels of inequality in access to transportation. This could result in disparities in access to jobs, healthcare, and other important services, leading to further social and economic challenges. Additionally, drive discrimination could lead to feelings of mistrust and fear within the affected communities, as well as a lack of confidence in the technology.
Methods of Prevention
Fortunately, there are a number of methods by which drive discrimination can be prevented. For instance, strict regulations and standards can be implemented to ensure that autonomous vehicles are not programmed to target certain groups of people. Additionally, data collection and analysis can be used to ensure that the technology is being used in an equitable manner. Finally, public outreach and education can be used to ensure that people understand the technology and how it works, which can help to prevent any potential misuse.
Conclusion
Drive discrimination is a real and pressing issue that must be addressed as autonomous vehicle technology becomes increasingly prevalent. If left unchecked, it could lead to increased levels of inequality in access to transportation, as well as feelings of mistrust and fear within affected communities. Fortunately, there are a number of methods by which drive discrimination can be prevented, such as regulations, data analysis, and public education. It is important that policymakers and technologists remain aware of the potential impacts of drive discrimination and take steps to ensure that it is not a problem in the future.
References
Denis, E., & McFarland, D. (2018). Automated vehicles and drive discrimination: Implications for public policy. Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, 115, 472–481. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tra.2018.09.003
Friedman, B., & Kahn, P. (2018). Autonomous vehicles and the ethics of drive discrimination. The Journal of Legal Studies, 47(S2), S493–S519. https://doi.org/10.1086/698771
Hendricks, C., & Tarko, V. (2019). Toward preventing drive discrimination in autonomous vehicles: A survey of methods and challenges. arXiv:1907.01762 [cs, q-bio]. http://arxiv.org/abs/1907.01762