Navigating Ethical Ambiguities: The AI Paradox Among Indian College Students

Abstract

This research paper examines the AI paradox in Indian higher education, where a significant proportion of college students view artificial intelligence (AI) tools as ethically problematic or akin to cheating, yet continue to employ them extensively. Drawing on secondary survey data from 2023-2025, the study explores psychological and ethical factors driving this behavior, amid inadequate institutional guidance and fragmented policies. Key findings reveal that 62-75% of students perceive AI as cheating, but usage persists at 40-70%, influenced by cognitive dissonance, moral disengagement, and cultural pressures like exam-centric education. The literature review identifies a gap in India-specific analyses, while the methodology relies on thematic analysis of reports from organizations such as Deloitte India, Turnitin, UNESCO, and NITI Aayog. The analysis highlights policy fragmentation, with only 30% of universities having AI guidelines, and recommends unified ethical frameworks. This paradox underscores the need for proactive institutional reforms to align AI adoption with academic integrity, fostering a balanced educational ecosystem. Implications extend to policymakers, educators, and students, advocating for AI literacy programs to resolve ethical ambiguities.