This week we've been discussing the latest in robotics technology -- machines currently in use and in development. The overriding question concerns the effect, or potential effect, of the various technologies on society and human lives.
Robots are currently used in homes, in factories and hospitals, and in law enforcement and the military. There are numerous projects, funded both publicly and privately, to develop more and more sophisticated robotics to fulfill a wide range of tasks.
Do you believe the impact of robotics is mostly positive or negative? Consider the current applications in health-care, the military, manufacturing and entertainment, as well as proposals suggested by the literature and/or videos viewed in class.
Consider the following links in addition to the short story and the discussion so far when developing your thesis:
- A Review of the Best Robots of 2010 (with videos)
- War of the Machines
- 2011: The Year of the Personal Robot?
- DNA Robot Could Deliver Cancer Drugs
Print out at least ONE of the above and use it in your essay, along with the story. You may of course also refer to your own experience and the ideas presented in science fiction books, films and video games.
And, as a bonus, here's the website for IEEE's online magazine Spectrum (subtopic: robotics)