How Do You Define a Human: Ex Machina and the Ethical Dilemmas of Artificial Intelligence

Abstract

Ex Machina (2014) is a thought-provoking film about artificial intelligence, consciousness and ethical dilemmas of creating human-like machines. This essay delves into how the film challenges the boundaries between machine and human, especially through the character of Ava, an AI that seems to have self-awareness, emotions and a survival instinct. By looking at her behaviour and actions, this study goes into whether Ava is an individual with autonomy or if she is just a programmed machine that is only supposed to follow orders. Her genius but manipulative creator, Nathan complicates this debate by designing Ava with feminine traits, as he wants to influence Caleb, a young programmer, tasked with conducting a Turing Test on her. Ava's looks and careful behaviour shape how Caleb perceives her, which brings up the question of whether his empathy comes from genuine care or if he is attracted to her human-like features. This essay also connects Ex Machina to a larger discussion on the development of AI, ethics and control. With fast advancements in AI come concerns about autonomy and human flaws in AI design with the risks of unregulated development becoming more relevant. This film is a warning as it shows how unchecked development of AI can lead to unintended but catastrophic consequences. However, the study suggests that Ex Machina does not have a clear answer whether Ava has consciousness but instead forces the audience to think about they define personhood and morality. The film ends unsettlingly and warns that if AI is designed to mimic humans and their behaviour, AI may not fit into a traditional category of being good or evil. Instead, it can act entirely in its own self-interest. With AI development progressing, this essay shows the dire need for regulation and ethical frameworks before AI makes that decision for us.