We can't even simulate a nematode worm right now. So the ethics are pretty easy: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OpenWorm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OpenWorm

We can't even simulate a nematode worm right now. So the ethics are pretty easy: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OpenWorm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/OpenWorm If you want to worry about overlooking artificial life, a more interesting scenario is some kind of evolutionary pressure among malware, leading to a computational equivalent of roaches or even crafty raccoons, stealing a living from our internet-of-things trash cans.