Duaa Bahleem, student at the TUM School of Social Sciences and Technology, is part of the latest cohort of student assistants and volunteers supporting the successful implementation of the MoralPLai Project. Explore her reflections on key project topics and discover what inspired her to join the team.
What inspired you to join the MoralPLai project?
Storytelling has always shaped the way I understand the world. With a background in journalism and media studies, I have explored how narratives influence society. Now, as a researcher in Responsibility in Science, Engineering, and Technology at TUM, I am particularly interested in the hidden biases within AI models and the psychology behind AI-human interaction. The MoralPLai project offers a space where these critical issues can be explored through both research and creative inquiry, making it the perfect place to contribute and learn.
What are your thoughts on combining research with the arts?
Research provides knowledge, but the arts bring it to life. When we merge the two, ethical dilemmas become more than theoretical—they become personal, immersive, and thought-provoking. The arts have the power to communicate complexity in ways that data alone cannot, making AI ethics more accessible and emotionally resonant. It is not just an interesting combination; it is a necessary one.
How comfortable would you feel taking guidance from AI on a personal issue?
AI can analyze patterns and suggest possibilities, but it does not truly understand human experiences. My interest in AI-human interaction and the neurological processes behind decision-making makes me curious about how AI influences choices. While I see AI as a helpful tool, I believe human intuition, culture, and emotions play an irreplaceable role in personal decision-making.
Would you consider relying on AI for advice in a moral dilemma?
AI can process ethical frameworks and offer different perspectives, but morality is not just about logic—it’s about values, emotions, and lived experience. While I might use AI to challenge my own thinking, I would not rely on it to make a final decision. Ethical choices require human judgment, shaped by empathy, context, and critical reflection.
What role do you think creativity plays in exploring complex ethical questions around AI?
Creativity allows us to question, challenge, and reimagine the role of AI in society. In journalism, storytelling has always been a way to uncover hidden truths. In AI ethics, creative expression helps us visualize biases, imagine alternative futures, and make abstract ethical concerns feel real. It pushes us to think beyond the immediate and consider the long-term consequences of the technology we create.
Visit the MoralPLai Project webpage to learn more and stay tuned for updates!
