SNC/Marquette 3+3 Law Program Application

Thank you for your interest in the St. Norbert College/Marquette University 3+3 Law partnership program.
 
Students interested in pursuing this program should complete the application below. To help us make the most informed decision possible, please respond as completely as possible. The priority deadline for this program will be May 1, 2025.
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Academic Information
Essay Response
Several companies, including Google, Audi, Mercedes Benz and Tesla, are developing self-driving automobiles that would create new opportunities for drivers. Commutes could be used to accomplish tasks while the autonomous vehicle delivers the occupant to work. Individuals with conditions limiting their ability to drive would now have greater independence. And safety would be improved by utilizing technology to avoid accidents typically caused by human error. Yet, there do exist possible legal and ethical challenges, including one posed by the philosopher Patrick Lin. When a self-driving car faces an unavoidable crash, should it be programmed to:

(a) choose the option that minimizes the chance of harm to the occupants of the car (e.g., swerving onto a sidewalk)

or

(b) choose the option that minimizes the potential harm done to everybody at the accident scene (e.g., swerving into a telephone pole, minimizing the risk of serious harm to vulnerable pedestrians, but increasing the chance of relatively minor harm to the occupants of the car)?

In 1,000 words or fewer, present your argument for the optimal outcome in this scenario.