The Humanity of Robots

By: Rahaf Ayman

ϭ What’s a robot?

The earliest robot on record, created in the early 1950s, was the work of George C. Devol, an inventor from Louisville, Kentucky. Essentially, it’s a machine that resembles a human being and can function like one. So, what separates those terms, human and robot, and why does the prior tend to have a higher status over the other?

ϭ Who’s the master?

Let’s address the recurring argument of creation, which states that since humans invented robots, theoretically and when applied, they’re inherently superior and should possess more rights and privileges. Although this statement is valid and mostly treated as a fact rather than an opinion, it comes with questions and even doubts. The idea of robots is to imitate and perfect the human experience, whether in actions, reactions, or the ability to show empathy. Humans are the source of inspiration. The growth of AI technologies only adds constant improvements to the original concept, slowly closing the gap separating the master and the masterpiece.

ϭ

Are you afraid?

Control. It all boils down to who gets to harness it, and what if it falters? Is it permanent or simply an illusion the human race can’t seem to let go of just because it gives them a sense of security? Fear is the deadly ingredient in the recipe of stifled imaginations, and it’s the leading blockade that stands in the way of achieving greatness. So, again, what do you fear? Is it the fear of the unknown? What happens if the inventions, the robots, get too advanced? Too smart? Well, isn’t that the point? Public society treats the developments in the AI world as a thing to be dreaded instead of highly anticipated and afterward celebrated.

ϭ Open your mind.

Humans can feel emotions, from devastation to pure happiness. Based on that, they form conscious thoughts and decisions. With time and new technology, robots might be able to reach that same level of emotional intelligence and consciousness. Their dependence on human beings will decrease, and their desire for equality will rise.

That probability is what causes people to panic. But hear this, if the birth of a newborn baby and its growth into a functioning member of society doesn’t pose a threat to you, then how is the creation of a robot any different?