Artificial intelligence (AI) and ethical concerns: a review and research agenda

The debate concerning the ethical implications of artificial intelligence is more pronounced in recent times. The AI community, while increasingly aware of potential issues, is still far from being able to mitigate the risks involved. This research adopts a unique and compelling approach by reviewing the existing work in the field of AI and ethics, and proposes a comprehensive research agenda for future studies. The study, conducted with thoroughness and precision, employed a combination of bibliometric and thematic analysis to gain insights from the existing literature, providing a comprehensive understanding of the details explored in the complex terrain of AI and ethics. The focus is exclusively on the proliferation of AI systems and technologies in diverse areas, how ethical concerns and studies have addressed them recently, and the way forward concerning “ethical AI”. The studies include 798 research articles published between 2004 and 2024. The paper summarizes the existing literature through detailed bibliometric and keyword analysis, proposing themes and an intellectual structure. This detailed and structured approach to this research will ensure a thorough understanding of the complex issues surrounding AI and ethics, underscoring the urgent need for immediate action to address the ethical implications of AI.