Use of artificial intelligence from an ethical perspective in agronomy: Global, national (Cuba) and local (Trinidad) analysis

Delvis Valdés Zayas; Rogelio Pérez Rojas

doi:10.61511/safses.v3i1.2026.3322

Authors

Delvis Valdés Zayas Department of Development, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Sancti Spiritus, Trinidad City, Sancti Spíritus Province 62600, Cuba
Rogelio Pérez Rojas Department of Development, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of Sancti Spiritus, Trinidad City, Sancti Spíritus Province 62600, Cuba

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.61511/safses.v3i1.2026.3322

Keywords:

artificial intelligence, ethics, agronomy

Abstract

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a transformative tool in global agriculture, although its integration entails ethical implications that may exacerbate inequalities. This research provides a critical analysis of the ethical use of AI in agronomy, examining global, national (Cuba) and local (Trinidad) contexts. Methods: The study employed mixed methodology with systematic review, surveys (n=120), focus groups (n=25) and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Findings were integrated through a SWOT analysis and validated using methodological triangulation. Findings: Results reveal a significant digital divide (only 10% of farmers in Trinidad report acceptable connectivity) and high interest (70%) in contextualized solutions. This research identify that 78% of technicians express concern about algorithmic biases in solutions not adapted to the Cuban context. Based on SWOT analysis, we propose a four-dimensional action plan with axes on infrastructure, training, contextualized development and governance. Conclusion: The study concludes that ethical AI implementation in Cuban agriculture requires a sovereign approach prioritizing frugal solutions, community governance and alignment with the socialist production model. Novelty/Originality of this article: The uniqueness of this research lies in its critical ethical assessment of the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) within a non-Western agricultural framework, specifically by comparing the global discourse on AI with local realities in Cuba and Trinidad.

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