Ethical dilemmas of human–artificial intelligence interaction in the virtual spaces of the metaverse

Abstract

Relevance of the research is determined by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence technologies within virtual environments, which are gradually evolving into the metaverse. Such developments necessitate a rethinking of ethical foundations, as traditional moral models are insufficient to regulate interactions with autonomous artificial systems acting within socially significant contexts. The aim of the research is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the ethical dimensions of human interaction with intelligent algorithms in the metaverse, considering digital subjectivity, system autonomy, and moral responsibility in virtual contexts. The research methodology is based on an interdisciplinary framework combining the philosophy of technology, digital ethics, cognitive theory, and applied analysis of algorithmic behavior. Logical-analytical methods, structural-functional analysis, typology of interaction forms, and comparative analysis of ethical models are employed. The results of the study include the development of a typology of human– artificial intelligence interaction in the metaverse (assistive, simulative, personalized, empathic, and agentive) and the identification of their specific ethical risks. The application of deontological ethics, utilitarianism, virtue ethics, the ethics of responsibility, and relational ethics in metaversal environments is explored. Risks such as moral disorientation, loss of user autonomy, manipulative influence, and distortion of digital identity are identified. The conclusions justify the need for interdisciplinary regulation of AI-driven systems, identify key areas for ethical construction of digital experience, and demonstrate that without the integration of humanities-based approaches, the risk of ethical erosion will continue to grow. Future research prospects include the development of empirical models to assess artificial intelligence's impact on user moral autonomy, the creation of adaptive ethical control algorithms, and the formulation of normative frameworks for metaverse platforms.