Resolving Clashing Norms Using Tiered Utility

Abstract

There are times when norms clash in a given situation. One norm requires an agent to do X. Another requires an agent to not do X but to do Y or nothing (not X) instead. This paper describes a way to resolve clashes between norms using a concept of tiered utility that has the potential to be automated. Classical utility has polarity and magnitude. Tiered utility has polarity, magnitude and tiers. Tiers are used for lexicographic preference orderings that enable correct normative choices by robots.