Abstract:
This study examined the moral and ethical expectations of users as it relates to
voice-activated assistants. Results from this pilot study suggests that users prefer for the
technology not to interfere in the three fictional audio scenarios presented to them. The scenarios
created around the issues of domestic violence, production of illegal substances and a potential
mass attack provided participants with the opportunity to decide the action a fictional
voice-activated virtual assistant, Morli, should take. Participants showed a strong preference for
Morli not to interfere. However, their responses highlighted an on-going complex deliberation
about the role of technology in morally challenging circumstances that could possibly occur in
the future and how to best handle these situations. Results from this study could influence
conversations around regulating technology.