The Ethical and Social Dilemma of AI Uses in the Construction Industry

Abstract

Given the growth in data collection and application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the construction industry, there is a need to study the ethical and social considerations for employees in the industry and for society in general. AI could support more efficient ways of working where technology is better equipped for the tasks compared to humans. With new technologies such as AI, many decisions will be made by algorithms and not by humans. This paper explores the ethical and social dilemmas that are intrinsic in decisionmaking, and how they will also impact the decisions made by AI algorithms. The paper presents definitions of ethical and social dilemmas, a definition of AI, and summarizes current applications of AI in construction. It also discusses several questions associated with the current and future application of AI in the construction industry and the ethical and social dilemmas defined. This is an exploratory paper and the aim of the authors is to spark further research and discussion on the topic within the Lean Construction community, given that lean is based on respect for people and the implications of AI uses to individuals in our industry have not been understood.

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