Determining appropriate relief for unexpected transactions concluded through the use of autonomous software agents.

摘要

Technology has developed that enables sophisticated computer software programs to initiate and complete transactions autonomously without human intervention. This thesis critically examines the extent to which the law provides relief for unexpected transactions concluded through the use of autonomous software agents. It analyzes the treatment of agent-generated transactions under common law rules of contract formation, agency law, and legislation that deals with computer-generated contracts. The author argues that there may be circumstances in which neither the common law nor legislation provides relief for the unexpected operations of autonomous agents. The author accordingly examines alternative means of providing protection against unforeseen transactions arranged through the use of electronic agents. The thesis concludes by recommending a mechanism that not only limits the risk of unauthorized or unintended transactions by computer agents, but also encourages the use and continued evolution of agent technology in electronic commerce.