[ajj]

You raise a great point. Definitely agree on the fact that legal / ethical frameworks are required.

However, it might be very hard to do without knowing what the emulated "being" looks like. Its hard to imagine placing legalities and ethics on something whose powers (and possibly, limitations) are absolutely unknown. Consequently, the law might be misplaced, restrictive, or downright abusive depending on what it turns out to be.

Having said that, I agree with your broad point - having that advanced technology without the social aspects to deal with it might be a nightmare!