Question

assignment in progress for barker - sn engl 11 2 a (105)due february 12, 2026 at 11:59 pmcan machines learn morality?randy rieland ● 2013font size mediummachines are becoming increasingly more intelligent and independent, but can they know the difference between right and wrong? this informational text discusses what equipping machines with morality would look like and the effect it could have on the world.as you read, take notes on the advantages and disadvantages of providing machines with morality to make them more independent.(1) when john brennan, president obamas choice to be the next head of the cia, appeared before a senate committee yesterday, one question supplanted all others at his confirmation hearing:assessment questions1 part a: which of the following identifies the central idea of the text?a. morality is a solely human trait that robots may never be able to fully understand or use to make decisions.b. equipping robots with a sense of morality would allow them to be more useful in combat, however, this would also allow them more independence than some people approve of.c. equipping robots with a sense of right and wrong is an unwise decision, as humans have yet to master a knowledge of morality themselves.d. equipping robots with morality is the best way to ensure that no matter how autonomous they become, they will never act unwisely

Explanation:

The central idea of the text is introduced as exploring what equipping machines with morality would entail and its global effects, along with noting the need to examine pros and cons of giving machines morality for independence. Option A is incorrect because the text does not state morality is solely human and robots can never understand it. Option B is too narrow, focusing only on combat use rather than the broader topic of machine morality's general implications. Option D is wrong because the text does not claim this is the "best way" to prevent unwise actions, nor does it make such an absolute guarantee. Option C aligns with the text's focus on the debate around machine morality, as it acknowledges humans themselves have not fully mastered morality, making the choice to give it to robots unwise, which ties to examining the disadvantages mentioned.

Answer:

C. Equipping robots with a sense of right and wrong is an unwise decision, as humans have yet to master a knowledge of morality themselves.