Medieval theology has an old take on a new problem − AI responsibility

Ethicists wrestling with AI's responsibility for its actions, vis-a-vis its creators' responsibility, could learn a few things from theology. 'The Creation of Adam' from the Sistine Chapel, by Michelangelo/Wikimedia Commons

A self-driving taxi has no passengers, so it parks itself in a lot to reduce congestion and air pollution. After being hailed, the taxi heads out to pick up its passenger – and tragically strikes a pedestrian in a crosswalk on its way.

Who or what deserves praise for the car’s actions to reduce congestion and air pollution? And who or what deserves blame for the pedestrian’s injuries?