Embedding Human Values in the Design of a Technotherapeutic Implantable Systems
On the 7th of November, Katina Michael delivered a presentation on the below topic related to embedding values in the design of a technotherapeutic system for US warfighters. Today on the 11th of November, Veterans Day in the USA, Brian Malow from SigmaXi and Katina Michael discuss some of the ethical, legal, social dilemmas surrounding the ADAPTER implantable system. Original source of video here: https://www.facebook.com/SigmaXi/videos/283228833720530/?__so__=channel_tab&__rv__=latest_videos_card
Original source of Katina’s abstract below here: https://www.sigmaxi.org/meetings-events/annual-meeting-and-student-research-conference/speakers
Embedding Human Values in the Design of a Technotherapeutic Implantable System for US Warfighters: A Multi-Layered Socio-Technical Inquiry from Proof of Concept to Prototype and Testing
This presentation emphasizes the need for human values to be embedded in the design process of a novel technotherapeutic implantable system for US warfighters being developed by DARPA’s BTO called the “ADAPTER”. As an ELSI panelist my role is to raise awareness on the importance of ethical legal and social aspects and possible implications as they pertain to the development of the NTRAIN semi-autonomous complex system. When we consider responsible innovation the question often asked is how to actually prove that values or principles have indeed been embedded into the design process and executed with the appropriate safeguards. Here we take a look at three well-known stages of development- proof of concept, prototyping and testing as they align to DARPA’s three phases of technical activities, and ask the fundamental corresponding ELSI questions. The main contribution of the presentation is a multi-layered socio-technical inquiry from the macro (defense oriented viability supported by government drivers), to the meso (technical oriented feasibility articulated by systems of innovation), and the micro (end-user desirability driven by social contracts and choice) levels.