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Autonomous weaponry and IR theory: conflict and cooperation in the age of AI

In: Handbook on the Politics and Governance of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence

Author

Listed:
  • Amelia Hadfield
  • Alex Leveringhaus

Abstract

Over the last decade or so, interest in Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems (LAWS) has grown among academics, policy makers, and campaigners. The debate, however, has been dominated by international lawyers, ethicists, and technologists at the expense of other analytical lenses. This chapter uses International Relations Theory (IRT) in order to provide a fresh perspective, focussing on realist, liberal, and constructivist approaches. Beginning with a conceptual discussion of the nature of LAWS, the chapter uses IRT to assess the potential impact of LAWS on the ability and willingness of states to cooperate under conditions of anarchy. The chapter concludes that while established IRTs offer useful insights into the impact of LAWS on wider international security, LAWS also push the conceptual boundaries of IRT. Over time, IRT might have to adapt itself to deal with the practical consequences of the introduction of LAWS.

Suggested Citation

  • Amelia Hadfield & Alex Leveringhaus, 2023. "Autonomous weaponry and IR theory: conflict and cooperation in the age of AI," Chapters, in: Andrej Zwitter & Oskar J. Gstrein (ed.), Handbook on the Politics and Governance of Big Data and Artificial Intelligence, chapter 6, pages 167-187, Edward Elgar Publishing.
    • Handle: RePEc:elg:eechap:20760_6
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