Ethical Imperatives and Frameworks for Responsible AI Adoption in Digital Entrepreneurship

Background

The dynamic evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) stands as a paradigm-shifting force within the realm of digital entrepreneurship, ushering in unparalleled prospects for innovation and operational efficiency. As businesses increasingly integrate sophisticated AI technologies, a critical focus on the ethical dimensions of this adoption becomes imperative. This chapter aspires to furnish a comprehensive background, specifically honing in on the ethical imperatives and intricate frameworks requisite for the judicious incorporation of AI in the landscape of digital entrepreneurship. Embedded within this exploration is a profound acknowledgment of the moral obligation to align technological advancements with enduring ethical principles, recognizing that ethical missteps not only jeopardize reputational standing but also wield tangible threats to stakeholder trust and societal welfare. Anchored in a broader context of ethical considerations governing technological evolution, the study adeptly draws upon established ethical frameworks such as utilitarianism, deontology, and virtue ethics, furnishing a meticulously structured lens for the nuanced analysis and guidance of ethically sound AI adoption (Akter et al., 2022)(Richey Jr, Chowdhury, Davis‐Sramek, Giannakis & Dwivedi 2023). Navigating through the labyrinth of regulatory complexities, the chapter systematically addresses governance challenges encountered by entrepreneurs as they traverse diverse regulatory landscapes. Particular emphasis is accorded to the intricate concerns surrounding bias and fairness in the crucible of AI-driven decision-making, underscoring the indispensable need for strategic interventions to mitigate bias and ensure equitable outcomes (Kumar et al., 2023)(Misra, Sharma, Gupta, & Das (2023)