Department or Program
Philosophy
Abstract
Artificial Intelligence (AI), a rapidly advancing technology, is transforming various industries by enhancing efficiency, simplifying tasks, and creating innovative products. From search engines and digital assistants to healthcare and legal services, its applications are becoming integral to daily life. Despite these benefits, the accelerated growth of AI raises profound ethical concerns regarding its impact on human dignity and the nature of meaningful work—both of which are necessary for human flourishing. In my thesis, I set out to define the concepts of human dignity and meaningful work. I develop a framework for understanding human dignity, which I refer to as the Social Autonomy Theory. This theory emphasizes the protection of individual autonomy, but also recognizes the centrality of social connection and recognition to human dignity. In the process, I develop the necessary conditions for meaningful work and argue that meaningful work is vital for upholding human dignity. I apply The Social Autonomy Theory to several work-related case studies to demonstrate how the implementation of AI in the workplace can undermine these dignity concerns, highlighting the importance of securing meaningful work. After evaluating each case study, I argue that while AI holds significant potential for societal advancement, its unchecked implementation could undermine human dignity and meaningful work. To conclude, I explore policy suggestions that prioritize ethical standards and safeguard the rights of individuals in an increasingly AI-driven world.
Level of Access
Open Access
First Advisor
Cummiskey, David
Date of Graduation
5-2025
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Recommended Citation
Fox, Nora, "Protecting Human Dignity and Meaningful Work in the Age of AI: A Social Autonomy Framework for Ethical Decision Making in The Workplace" (2025). Honors Theses. 496.
https://scarab.bates.edu/honorstheses/496
Number of Pages
78
Components of Thesis
1 pdf file
