The Ethical Paradigms of AI Resource Allocation

Explore how different ethical frameworks lead to radically different allocation decisions. Simulate real-world scenarios and confront the trade-offs that make AI ethics so challenging.

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Utilitarian

Cost-Effectiveness

Principle: Greatest good for the greatest number.

AI Stance: Allocate resources to those with the highest expected benefit per dollar spent.

✓ Maximises efficiency and total outcomes
✗ Risks excluding vulnerable, high-cost patients

🤝

Egalitarian

Equal Access

Principle: Equal right to resources, regardless of cost.

AI Stance: Distribute resources equally; strictly forbid decisions based on ability-to-pay.

✓ Maximises equity and fairness
✗ Undermines cost optimisation and sustainability

🎯

Prioritarian

Needs-Based

Principle: Prioritise the worst off.

AI Stance: Include a "vulnerability index" to boost rankings for the most severely ill or disadvantaged.

✓ Bridges the profit-access divide
✗ Requires subsidisation; complex to implement

Select a Case Study Scenario

Choose a resource allocation scenario to explore how each ethical paradigm would make different decisions.

Patient / Applicant Profiles

Allocation Simulator

Click each paradigm to see how it would allocate the limited resources. Compare the outcomes.

Your Ethical Analysis

AI-Powered Ethical Analysis (Optional)

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