Reconfiguring Human-Robot Relations

Abstract

This paper explores cultural imaginaries in projects dedicated to the design of human-like machines. Working with discussions of mimesis as developed by anthropologists Michael Taussig, M (1993) and Gell, A (1998), the author looks at some exemplary realizations of 'socially intelligent' robots, proposing an approach aimed at demystifying and reenchanting such encounters. This alternative is developed through a close analysis of a project at the intersection of computing and new media art, performance artist Stelare's prosthetic head. Drawing on recent discussions within cultural anthropology, science and technology studies, and feminist theory, the author offers some suggestions for how we might differently conceptualize relations between humans and computational machines