- Edited
Al_theGenie Although I feel an AI shouldn't be in charge in such situations (due to their lack of emotions and thus lack of fair, human justice), I feel that if it made that choice, it would be most correct, for an AI to make, as it follows the path of utilitarianism, on the spot, something that AIs probably would and (to an extent) should be programmed to follow (best action to benefit the majority). Of course, the concept of utilitarianism has its flaws... Even so, there's the thought of no emotions in it, so it's a frightening thought.
Oops... Sorry for the long answer...
If you were in a burning building and you had to pick one or the other and then leave, which would you choose?:
1) The only person (other than yourself) in the building, a child
or 2) A famous painting that could be sold for millions, which would then be able to help even more children
Bearing in mind, that when you choose one, you get it in perfect condition (the child has no burns or trauma, the painting is not damaged) and the one you leaves behind burns to... Non-existence, shall we say.