Blog #9 The Bicentennial Man

Andrew Martin is truly a representation of futuristic dreams and technology in the field of robotics. However this age of technology in actuality may not be as distant as originally speculated. Asimov would most certainly be amazed that the scenarios depicted in his many famous science fiction books may serve as frameworks for reality. Just the simple fact that conventions, such as the recent European Robotics Network held in South Korea, are being planned and presented proves the urgency of this issue in modern society. Great leaps have been made by robotic engineers and AI scientists, which have produced promising robots and devices capable of performing tasks and demonstrating certain abilities. Robots have been invented which appear to be helpful and efficient for caring for the elderly and completing household chores. Fifty years ago, the philosophical and ethical question of whether robots should receive equal and similar rights, would be considered completely ridiculous and unfeasible. It is actually quite amazing that extensions in scientific inquiry could lead to the establishment of a different societal ideal of what designates a human being. The story "Bicentennial Man" presents a more personal viewpoint of the possible implications of robot rights within modern society. Asimov is successful at evoking sympathy and understanding within his readers of Andrew's desires and motivations. Instead of describing robot infiltration within society as a threat to humanity, Asimov takes the optimistic standpoint. Robots are considered a benefit and advancement for the human race, making life easier and less stressful. Andrew is bestowed human qualities and personality traits especially the ability to be creative. These human-like characteristics strengthen the case that Andrew is a "person." In reality, the more advancements that are made in robotics, the more human these technologies appear. The ancient idea of a robot created and embellished on in literature, of a separate machine-like device made of bolts and metal, has disappeared. The revolutionized 21st century robot is considered equivalent to a human being, and therefore is deserving of equal protection under the law.