ManVersus Machine in Ambrose Bierce's selected Stories

Abstract

This study examines the relation between man and nature in the selected stories by Ambrose Bierce. Focusing on his works “Moxon‟s Master,” One of Twins, and The Realm of the Unreal, the study examines how Bierce anticipated the ethical dilemmas, existential threats, and societal impacts associated with AI. Through a detailed analysis, the research uncovers Bierce's portrayal of machines and autonomous entities, highlighting their implications for human autonomy, identity, and control. The central hypothesis posits that these narratives collectively predict the existential challenges posed by AI, including the potential for machines to surpass human control and the moral responsibilities of creators toward their creations. The study applies Jacques Ellul‟s theory of technological determinism to provide a framework for understanding these threats, arguing that Bierce‟s work remains relevant in today‟s AI discourse. By drawing parallels between Bierce‟s speculative fiction and modern AI developments, this dissertation demonstrates the enduring significance of his insights into the risks and ethical challenges of technological advancement. Ultimately, the research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between humanity and technology, as reflected in Bierce‟s prescient narratives.

Keywords: artificial intelligence, autonomy, identity, ethics, societal impact