AI and research, are we (un)consciously guilty?

Abstract Artificial intelligence is becoming ubiquitous across all sectors. The healthcare and research sectors are also affected. This situation gives rise to a number of questions, particularly in ethical terms. Concurrently, the deployment of this technology raises the question of whether a form of deliberate withdrawal or reduction in its use is feasible. The objective was to discuss existing literature on ethics and artificial intelligence in order to stimulate discussion and reflection on this major topical issue that will affect all sectors. This discursive article is based on an analysis of existing but non-exhaustive scientific literature concerning the intersection between ethics and artificial intelligence. The term “artificial intelligence” is polysemous, which means that its definition is vague and, as a result, its use and intention are unclear. However, AI would have many benefits in the field of research. It appears that ethics may serve as an effective safeguard to prevent the inappropriate utilization of this tool. It is of the utmost importance to integrate ethical considerations into the development of AI in order to guarantee its responsible and ethical use, while ensuring that its users are fully aware of its capabilities.