Socially interactive robots. Why our current beliefs about them still work

Abstract

Discussion about the application of scientific knowledge in robotics in order to build people helpers is widespread. The issue herein addressed is philosophically poignant, that of robots that are 'people'. It is currently popular to speak about robots and the image of Man. Behind this lurks the dialogical mind and the questions on its artificial existence. Without intending to defend or refute the discourse in favour of 'recreating' Man, a lesser familiar question is brought forth: 'Given that we are capable of creating a man (constructing a robot-person), what would the consequences of this be and would we be satisfied with such technology?' Thorny topic; it questions the entire knowledge foundation upon which strong AI/Robotics is positioned. The author argues for improved monitoring of technological progress and thus favours 'soft' (weak) implementation techniques.