ANTHROPOMORPHISM IN ROBOTICS: ASIMOV’S INFLUENCE ON HUMANIZING MACHINES AND PERCEIVED AUTONOMY

Abstract

This essay explores the role of anthropomorphism in robotics, with a particular focus on Isaac Asimov’s influence on the humanization of machines and the perception of robot autonomy. Anthropomorphism, the attribution of human traits to non-human entities, plays a significant role in how robots are designed and perceived. Asimov's seminal works, particularly his "Three Laws of Robotics," have profoundly impacted the development of robots that are increasingly human-like in both appearance and behavior. This essay examines how Asimov’s portrayal of robots has shaped public perception, the ethical considerations surrounding autonomous robots, and the ongoing debate about the limits of machine autonomy. The implications of anthropomorphism in robotics are critically analyzed, considering both the benefits and challenges of humanizing machines in an era of rapidly advancing artificial intelligence.