More Than Machines? - The Attribution of (In)Animacy to Robot Technology

We often talk about robots as if they were alive because of the practices of animacy attribution to robot technology. This phenomenon is explored by Laura Voss in her book, providing a rich insight into the challenges of robot technology appearing a little bit alive.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 03 December 2021
Publisher: Transcript Verlag

Robots, undeniably, are mere machines. However, it is intriguing to observe how we frequently imbue them with a sense of life. In her insightful exploration, Laura Voss delves into the practices of attributing animacy (and inanimacy) to robot technology. Spanning from science fiction to robotics research, science communication to media discourse, and from the theoretical perspectives of science and technology studies (STS) to cognitive sciences, Voss offers a comprehensive examination of this phenomenon. By adopting an interdisciplinary approach and drawing upon a wealth of empirical evidence, Voss demonstrates how scientists, engineers, journalists, and individuals at large can navigate the challenge of robot technology appearing somewhat alive with a reflexive and pragmatic mindset.

Introduction:
Robots, as machines, possess a distinct mechanical nature. However, the way we perceive and interact with them often suggests a level of vitality and consciousness. This phenomenon, where robots are imbued with a sense of life, has been studied extensively in various fields, including science fiction, robotics research, science communication, and media discourse. It encompasses a range of theoretical perspectives, from STS to cognitive sciences, and seeks to understand the mechanisms behind the attribution of animacy to robot technology.

Science Fiction and Robotics Research:
Science fiction has long played a significant role in shaping our understanding of robots and their potential for life. From early depictions in literature and film to modern-day science fiction narratives, robots have been portrayed as intelligent, autonomous beings capable of emotions, thoughts, and even consciousness. These fictional portrayals have influenced the development of robotics research, leading to advancements in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotics technology.

Science Communication and Media Discourse:
In the realm of science communication and media discourse, the attribution of animacy to robot technology is a common theme. Scientists, engineers, and journalists often use language and imagery that evoke a sense of life in robots, emphasizing their abilities, capabilities, and interactions with humans. This portrayal can shape public perception and influence policy decisions related to robotics and artificial intelligence.

Theoretical Perspectives:
The theoretical perspectives of STS and cognitive sciences offer valuable insights into the attribution of animacy to robot technology. STS scholars examine the social and cultural factors that contribute to the perception of life in technology, while cognitive scientists explore the cognitive processes and mechanisms that enable humans to perceive and interact with machines. These perspectives help us understand how the human mind processes and interprets information about robots, leading to the attribution of life-like qualities.

Reflexive and Pragmatic Stance:
In navigating the challenge of robot technology appearing a little bit alive, it is important to adopt a reflexive and pragmatic stance. Voss suggests that scientists, engineers, journalists, and individuals should engage in critical reflection about the ways in which they attribute animacy to robot technology. This involves questioning the assumptions underlying these attributions, considering the ethical implications of such perceptions, and exploring alternative ways of describing and interacting with robots.

Conclusion:
The attribution of animacy to robot technology is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon. It reflects the interplay between science fiction, robotics research, science communication, and human cognitive processes. By adopting a reflexive and pragmatic stance, we can better understand the implications of these attributions and engage with robot technology in a more informed and responsible manner. As we continue to advance in the field of robotics and artificial intelligence, it is crucial to maintain a balanced and nuanced perspective on the nature of these technologies and their potential impact on society.

Weight: 348g
Dimension: 149 x 224 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783837655605