MORAL THREATS IN THE AGE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND MECHANISMS FOR THEIR PREVENTION

This article analyzes the content and forms of moral threats emerging amid the rapid development of artificial intelligence technologies, their impact on public consciousness and the worldview of young people, as well as institutional, legal, educational, and awareness-raising mechanisms for preventing such threats. Particular attention is paid to the historical stages of artificial intelligence development, the widespread adoption of generative artificial intelligence, deepfakes, disinformation, manipulative content, digital addiction, the use of personal data, algorithmic stereotypes, and the impact of artificial intelligence on individuals’ ability to think independently. Based on data from the World Economic Forum, UNESCO, the International AI Safety Report, and strategic documents of the Republic of Uzbekistan concerning the development of artificial intelligence, the article highlights the scale of contemporary threats. It substantiates the need to address moral threats not merely through technological restrictions, but also through media and digital literacy, critical thinking, ethical education, legal awareness, cooperation between parents and educational institutions, and a human-centered approach to artificial intelligence policy.