Antony West (Author)

The concept of “predictive justice” or “pre-crime,” where individuals are identified and potentially acted upon before they commit an offence, is a potent theme in dystopian narratives and a growing ethical concern in real-world discussions. Leveraging vast datasets and advanced algorithms, law enforcement agencies are exploring tools that forecast where and when crimes might occur, and even who might be involved. While proponents highlight the potential for proactive crime prevention and increased public safety, critics warn of the profound ethical implications. Such systems risk perpetuating existing biases, infringing on civil liberties, and punishing individuals for potential future actions rather than actual offences. The fundamental principle of innocent until proven guilty is challenged, raising questions about fairness, privacy, and the very nature of justice. What are your main concerns about the idea of “pre-crime”?