A logical approach in autonomous vehicle ethics: the skeptical reasoning in dilemma

This paper addresses the ethical and technical challenges of autonomous vehicle (AV) design, especially in ethical dilemma situations where conflicting moral preferences exist. To manage these conflicts, a conceptual framework based on the floating conclusion is introduced for designing two distinct types of AVs (dual-AV systems): one prioritizing insider protection (passenger safety) and the other outsider protection (pedestrian safety). Using a novel interpretation of logical flow as subset relations in set theory, the floating conclusion framework helps visualizing and reasoning conflicts in both economic policy and AV ethics. In economic policy, this framework reveals how short-term trade-offs between inflation and employment can coexist under a common long-term goal of economic growth. In AV ethics, the framework demonstrates that conflicting moral priorities can be reconciled through a common action – braking in a straight line – as a universally safer response in ethical dilemmas. This shared action minimizes harm while respecting diverse moral values. The paper emphasizes the need for feasibility studies to assess the technical, economic, and social viability of implementing dual-AV systems. Future research should develop a systematic evaluation methodology to validate the proposed model against conventional AV systems, with metrics including ethical decision-making, safety, and public acceptance. This work lays the groundwork for ethical AI systems, offering an adaptable approach for addressing diverse moral preferences in AV design.