Send message to Authors

Paper short abstract

This paper examines visions of quantum computing: what are they envisioned to be, to do, and to do good for? Through an 'ethical vision assessment' I identify dominant visions of quantum computing and I explore the ethical issues they raise.

Paper long abstract

Visions of future technologies shape their development trajectories, making them important objects of ethical analysis. This paper examines contemporary visions of quantum computing and analyses the futures they project. Drawing on hermeneutic approaches to technology assessment, I develop an 'ethical vision assessment' to identify dominant visions of quantum computing and explore the ethical issues they raise.

Based on an extensive analysis of vision statements by key actors—focusing on value-laden terms, envisioned applications, associated domains, and anticipated technical affordances—the paper distils four dominant visions. Each positions the societal relevance of quantum computing differently: as a contributor to the public good, a scientific tool, an economic asset, or a geopolitical advantage. Across these visions, shared discursive patterns emerge that warrant ethical scrutiny: a strong techno-optimist orientation feeding into techno-solutionist logic; the prevalence of promissory language legitimising innovation agendas; and a discourse shaped by the interests of a narrow group of powerful actors. Together, these observations form a figurative heatmap of ethical concerns surrounding how quantum computing is currently envisioned, offering entry points for further ethical inquiry.