Societal Impact and Ethics of Artificial Intelligence module (CS51004)

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we live, work, and interact, bringing both opportunities and complex challenges. This module explores how AI technologies influence society, examining ethical, legal, and policy issues such as fairness, privacy, transparency, and accountability.

You will learn to critically analyse the implications of AI across different contexts, including employment, surveillance, and governance. Through case studies and discussion, you’ll consider how ethical principles can guide the responsible development and use of AI systems.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• study the societal and ethical implications of AI systems
• explore how AI technologies are governed at national and international levels
• discuss key issues such as privacy, bias, and fairness in AI
• evaluate how public policy frameworks can address the risks of emerging technologies
• engage in debates around how AI should be designed and deployed responsibly

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• analyse the governance and regulatory landscape of AI
• apply ethical frameworks to assess AI’s risks and benefits
• evaluate real-world AI systems for fairness, transparency, and accountability
• develop informed perspectives on the societal challenges and opportunities of AI

Assignments / assessment

• Coursework (100%)

Assessment is based on a written submission exploring the ethical and societal implications of AI in a chosen context.

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

You will learn through a combination of lectures, case-based seminars, and group discussions.
These sessions focus on critical analysis of real-world examples and the application of ethical reasoning to AI-related issues.