Researchers propose 'ethically correct AI' for smart guns that locks out mass shooters

A trio of computer scientists from the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York recently published research detailing a potential AI intervention for murder: an ethical lockout. The big idea here is to stop mass shootings and other ethically incorrect uses for firearms through the development of an AI that can recognize intent, judge whether it's ethical use, and ultimately render a firearm inert if a user tries to ready it for improper fire. That sounds like a lofty goal, in fact the researchers themselves refer to it as a "blue sky" idea, but the technology to make it possible is already here. Predictably, some will object as follows: "The concept you introduce is attractive. Is this AI really feasible, science- and engineering-wise?" We answer in the affirmative, confidently.