Abstract

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) rapidly advances, the debate surrounding the rights and responsibilities of sentient AI entities intensifies. This chapter delves into AI ethics to propose a comprehensive legal framework for defining the rights and responsibilities of such entities. Examining philosophical, ethical, and legal perspectives on AI sentience, it addresses the implications of attributing human-like qualities to AI systems. The literature review explores AI ethics, AI personhood, and existing legal frameworks regarding AI rights and liabilities. Progress in deep learning, natural language processing, and human-like behaviors in AI raises questions about consciousness, autonomy, and moral agency in General AI. The ethical aspect is central to the AI personhood debate, questioning whether AI entities can experience consciousness and possess intrinsic value, challenging traditional ethical norms. The consequences of granting AI personhood extend to privacy, freedom from discrimination, and human-AI relationship dynamics. The paper analyses global legal landscapes, studying laws and policies addressing AI rights and responsibilities. While some countries are looking to recognize AI as legal persons or grant specific rights, others adopt property-based approaches. Key court rulings and case studies involving AI entities shape future legal precedents. To address defining AI rights and responsibilities, the paper proposes a comprehensive legal blueprint. Balancing potential AI sentience with societal interests outlines guidelines for determining AI personhood and allocating responsibilities to developers, owners, and users. Emphasizing international collaboration and standardization, the paper highlights the importance of a coherent global policy safeguarding human interests and upholding ethical principles regarding AI personhood. In conclusion, this research contributes to the discourse on AI and sentience's legal implications. Exploring ethical and legal dimensions, aids policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders in crafting responsible regulations embracing AI's potential while safeguarding human rights and societal welfare.

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