#28 Mathilda Marie Mulert: Sex Robots, Simulation, and the Question of Moral Harm

In this episode of the AITEC Podcast, we’re joined by philosopher Mathilda Marie Mulert, a doctoral researcher at the Oxford Internet Institute, to explore one of the most difficult questions in contemporary tech ethics: when, if ever, is it morally permissible to simulate sexual violence? 

Drawing on her recent work on simulation ethics, Mulert examines video games, virtual environments, sex robots, and consensual role-play to challenge the assumption that “it’s just pretend.” We discuss the Gamers’ Dilemma, the limits of consent, and why moral context—not just content—matters when evaluating simulated wrongdoing.

This conversation is philosophical, careful, and candid. Listener discretion is advised.

Links:

• Mathilda’s Oxford Internet Institute Webpage
• Mathilda’s recent article

For more, visit ethicscircle.org.