Emerging Technology
Human Androids

Semantha Sebastian Theresa Keefer Hazel Marie Roxas Juan Martinez Amilcar Vasquez Shasta Taguran

DeVry University
LAS432
Professor: David Scoma
April 13, 2014

ABSTRACT
(200-word summary of the entire paper)
This research discusses the emerging technology of the human android. Different types of robots are discussed and, how these devices come together with computer technology. It begins with a description of this innovative modern day science and discusses its applications. To this end, it explores how robots and androids assist in both domestic and workplace activities. Next, our paper goes into detail on the historical development of human androids which goes back into the into the Renaissance time period. In addition, current development is briefly mentioned which includes economic support from the U.S President, further research, and considering an ongoing project. The collection of models are also noted followed by innovation changes that have been implemented up to this date. Last of all, the legal issues and concerns are described under different cases while government manufacturing has become significant. Next we will delve into the environmental implications androids and robots have on our society such as ensuring a safe society with the additions of these man-made creations and the possible threats they bring. This leads us into the moral and ethical implications of how they can improve our lives and the challenging code of ethics that is brought forth as to how we should consider them in today’s society.

Acknowledgements

This page is to acknowledge and thank the DeVry students that participated in the TSC Team Project for 2014. The hard work and dedication of Team E is mutually appreciated by all its members. The following is a description of each member’s responsibilities and input:
Semantha Sebastian‒Project Manager
Section 1: Description of the technology and an explanation of the associated science
Juan Martinez
Section 2: The historical development and context of the technology
Section 3: Political and legal influences
Shasta Taguran
Section 4: Economic questions and considerations
Hazel Marie Roxas
Section 5: Psychological considerations and sociological effects
Amilcar Vasquez
Section 6: The technology in its cultural context, media influence
Theresa Keefer
Section 7: Implications for the environment
Section 8: Moral and ethical implications

Finally, a special thanks to our Professor David Scoma.

TABLE OF CONTENTS PART I ‒ Description Science of Human Androids ……………………………………………………………. | 1 | Workplace applications…………………………………………………………………. | 6 | Domestic applications…………………………………………………………………… | 8 | | | | PART II ‒ Historical Development Beginnings of development ……………………………………………....………..……. | 11 | Collection / organization of models invented…………………………….……………… | 13 | Latest innovation changes…………………………………………………..……………. | | | PART III ‒ Political and Legal Influence Potential legal concerns ………………………………………………….………………. | 16 | Present manufacturing government rules………………………………….……………... | 17 | | | | PART IV ‒ Economic [ MISSING ] Cost | | Supply and demand | | Job displacement | |
PART V ‒ Psychological and social considerations Acceptance | 18 | Rejections | |
PART VI ‒ Cultural considerations 24 Foreign production | 26 | U.S. production | 30 | | PART VII ‒ Environmental considerations Safer society | 33 | Possible threats | 36 |
PART VIII ‒ Ethical and moral aspects Improving life | 38 | Challenging code of ethics | 40 | | |

INTRODUCTION

Human-like androids provide a social appearance as they make life easier at both the workplace and home. The android evolved from devices used to assist people in everyday life. The concept has always been to help us be more efficient in producing products and services. By combining the mechanical abilities of a robot with computer technology, we enter a field of technology called robotics. These sophisticated computer driven robots that mimic humans are referred to as androids. Today, we have begun to explore the emotional and psychological impact of androids through its human-like appearance. Other areas of concern are the historical, political, economic, environmental and even the delicate moral and ethical implications that have begun to impact our society. The following is our contribution to define and maybe even direct strategies for future concerns of the android in our society.

PART I ‒ Description
(Semantha Sebastian)

Science of Human Androids

Physical Appearance and Artificial intelligence
A human android is a robot. Although robots have been around for decades human androids, as the name suggests, takes on human-like characteristics. In other words, it looks and seems to act like a real person. To accomplish this it combines two features, a physical appearance and an artificial intelligence. The technology of combining the application, construction, design and operation of robots with computer systems for its control is a branch of technology referred to as robotics.

Physical Appearance
Physically, an android looks and in some cases feels like a real human being. This is the major difference between a robot and an android. In the late 70’s, the Star Wars movie introduced the dynamic Droid duo of C-3PO and R2-D2 (Pruthi, (2012). Although these two robots resembled humans in that they had arms and legs, they were clearly not attempting to appear as humans. However, a short time after that, the TV series introduced a character known as DATA. Although not a real android, this character portrayed one. The actor pretended to be a robot with artificial intelligence. Today, this dream has become a reality. Although we have a long way to go, we have begun by creating robots with a superficial human-likeness. To accomplish this distinction, a copy of the human form must be duplicated. This process begins by creating a mould of the human body made of plaster and then a clay model with more human detail is made. From here, a silicone version of the human body is produced. The silicone provides the feel and texture similar to a real person (Ishiguro, 2006). According to scientist, Ishiguro, the eye is the most complex part of the body to recreate. This is because of the interaction that the eye has with its environment. Ishiguro suggests that, when looking at a person’s face we first notice their eyes. To aid in making the eye more convincing, a blinking mechanism is added. To reproduce human-like movement air actuators (a device used to convert energy into mechanical motion) are used. The main advantage of these actuators is that they operate silently. This helps the android to appear more human. The main problem however, is that the air actuators require a large and powerful compressor. The result is that this current model is stationary and does not walk. For this model, the actuators are used for the head, torso, arms and fingers. The actuators are used to reproduce the natural movement of the body, including the expansion of the chest when breathing.

Probably, the most complicated function was to reproduce the facial expressions used in social interaction. In addition to appearance, the android has a few human-like perception abilities. This is accomplished through the use of computer vision and pattern recognition. To further assist the android in its human-like perception abilities, Ishiguro uses external devices such as cameras, microphones, infrared motion and floor sensors. The only kind of sensor installed in Ishiguro’s robot is skin sensors. This allows the robot to respond to touch. For example, if a person taps the robot on the shoulder, it will respond by turning in the direction of the touch; then, saying “What do you want?”

There is however, a commercial robot that does walk‒minus the intricate facial expressions. It is manufactured by the Honda Company. It goes by the name of ASIMO. ASIMO is one of the world’s most advanced robots today. It is “a completely independent two-legged walking robot.” It is able to do things such as serve beer and handle menial tasks around the house. It can also meet and greet customers and clients at the office. It can even walk up and down stairs, turn corners, open and close doors, shake hands and move and carry light objects (Renaud, 2014).

Artificial Intelligence
“Artificial Intelligence is a branch of computer science that makes computers perform tasks we normally (or used to) think of as requiring human intelligence” (Baase, 2013). For example, a motion sensor of a home security system is a form of artificial intelligence. When it security system is engaged and there is an intruder in your home, the system can either cause a loud alarm or/and notify the police. It can also notify you on your cell phone if you are away from home. The end result is that it can help prevent a crime or assist in capturing a burglar. It actually takes the place of a security guard. Speaking of security, it’s a common observation to see images of Drones on the news being used by our military for combat. Using Artificial Intelligence in this way has the potential of saving countless numbers of our military soldiers. Non-the-less, it has been the source of controversy. The form of artificial intelligence I use often is software featured in word processing programs. This software reviews syntax, grammar and typos. It also makes suggestions. Speech recognition is also another feature that computer systems use. This is especially useful for the physically impaired.

When artificial intelligence is combined with a mechanical robot, you have the basic ingredients for an android. Clearly, the advantage of an android over a regular robot is that it, first of all, appears and looks like another human. This gives the android the ability to elicit human responses (MacDorman, 2006). An android is designed to be indistinguishable from a real person. We have discussed approaches for accomplishing this in the android’s physical appearance; now let us examine how the behavior can be made human-like using artificial intelligence. Vision, hearing and responding to touch are several ways that makes the android appear more human. Using cameras and computer software, the android can appear to actually see. Small microphones can also give the appearance that the android is responding to sound. The android can actually appear to learn as it builds a file of pattern recognition. The concept of pattern recognition can enable it to play, and even win chess games. In fact, in the late 20th century, IBM’s chess computer was able to defeat the, then, World Champion in a chess tournament. The question of intelligence can be confusing. In the book entitled, “A Gift of Fire,” Philosopher John Searle sites that “they do not think, they manipulate symbols.” Though less technical, I see the distinction in androids and humans made clear by the android’s inability to feel or demonstrate passion. It is for this reason that they only simulate understanding. Pruthi, in his text entitled, “Wireless robotics: A history, an overview, and the need for standardization,” sites that because they do not have a brain they are not organic creatures. Still, for research purposes, androids can elicit human to human reactions. To support human-like conscious recognition, Ishiguro installed skin sensors in his robot. This enables the robot to respond to touch. For example, if a person taps the robot on the shoulder, it will respond by turning in the direction of the touch. According to Pruthi, the desire for human-like intelligence is only one of the driving forces behind android research. The other, he sites as challenging the immortality of humans. He goes on to mention the possibility of extending our consciousness. He adds that in the near future there is “a potential for a singularity. That is, binding of man and machine.” This would mean that in addition to Data, of the TV series Star Trek, becoming a reality; so would the movie icon, Robo Cop, become a reality as well.

Aside from making life easier and safer, at both home and work, Androids provide information for science research by eliciting interpersonal responses that humans are not capable of doing (MacDorman, 2006). Scientists explain it this way: “The androids enable us to investigate a number of phenomena related to human interaction that could not otherwise be investigated with mechanical-looking robots. This is because more human-like devices are in a better position to elicit the kinds of responses that people direct toward each other. Moreover, we cannot ignore the role of appearance in giving us a subjective impression of human presence or intelligence” (Takashi, 2006). For example, a human could not hold or reproduce an exact facial expression that could be used to measure heartbeat or blood pressure. Truly, science is an arcane discipline. Nevertheless, I see the value of the android as a service device as something wonderful.

Workplace applications
As with any other computing technology, androids produce a fear that machines might take over jobs and contribute to mass unemployment. Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution this has been the case. Today, there is no doubt that electronic, automated services have caused concern. We know that technology and computing technology, in particular, eliminate certain jobs. On the other hand, these technologies create job opportunities as well. These new technologies have to be monitored, repaired and serviced in a variety of ways. Not only that, but jobs created from the need to educate potential service employees in technology are created as well. As we progress in time, we find that robots have been used to assemble products more efficiently and cost effectively than humans. We see this in assembly lines of all types ranging from automobiles to packing various products. Although they work faster and more accurately than humans do, they still require software and updates to improve computer performance (Baase, 2013).

Most recently, famed scientist Rodney Brooks has created a human-like robot for business. His goal is to take robotics to the next level by creating a robot for manufacturing companies. He started out with a crane-like robotic arm that performed simple tasks. Shortly after, he began to work on a humanoid robot that had the potential to do a number of assembly line jobs. Although there were other robot arms that sold for about $30,000.00, Rodney Brooks, the inventor of Baxter, felt that having two arms would enable a robot to work better. Having a machine with two arms meant that the arms needed to be mounted on a torso-like frame. To prevent the arms from blocking the view of the computer screen, it was place on top. This design resembled a human. Rodney decided to put a face on the screen to make it look more human. Actually, the face consists of eyes and eyebrows on a screen that can make various expressions. This humanoid robot called Baxter is being designed to take over more complex jobs such as operating machines. At a cost of about $22,000.00 Baxter could be assembled, trained and put to work in about an hour. This means that Baxter could replace humans in millions of jobs. The instructions for operating Baxter are as follows:
Baxter can be trained by anyone, simply by guiding one or both of its arms and following menu prompts on the monitor that serves as Baxter's head. Here's how to train Baxter to pick up widgets and stuff them into boxes: 1. Select training mode. 2. Grab one of Baxter's arms and swing its "hand" over the widget, and click to indicate that this is the object to be grabbed. 3. A camera in Baxter's hand will center on the widget and display the image on the screen; confirm with a click that this is the right sort of object. 4. Baxter will grab the object. Swing the arm over the four corners of the box and click to indicate this is the destination for the widget. 5. Click to confirm that Baxter is to insert the widget into the box. 6. Baxter will put the object into the box, using sensors to guide the widget in. Click to confirm that this is the entire task. 7. Run the conveyor. As long as widgets appear in roughly the same area, Baxter will identify, grab, and box them. Its facial expressions will indicate if it is struggling or working smoothly (Freedman, 2012).

Physically, the robot Baxter consisted of an upper torso, arms and head only. The next robot that followed was named Asimo, which stands for stands for “Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility.” This one, developed by Honda Motor Company was a full body design. Its height is four feet, three inches. This enables it to have eye-to-eye contact with people confined to a wheel chair or sitting up in a hospital bed. Asimo is the first human android robot capable of human-like running. Enhanced visual sensor and force sensor technologies allow Asimo to move in sync with people. It can accept or receive an object, shake hands in concert with a person’s movement. Asimo can also respond to voice commands. It is light weight, 119 lbs. and can walk up and down stairs to retrieve things (Renaud, 2014).

Today’s generation of robots made in Japan is being designed to not only act like humans but to look like humans as well. There human-like features and facial expressions can be used in hospitals to provide one-on-one conversations with hospital patients. Among other things, this ability can help to keep the elderly mind active. To aid in appearing like real people, the androids eyes blink and it uses its arms to express itself while talking. Artificial Intelligence is made possible by the use of software program installed in the human android. These programs enable it to appear as though it is learning. In much, the same way that the web browser on your computer accesses records and stores information from the World Wide Web (or even personal files in your computer file system) the human android appears to learn. These tasks that we thought of as requiring human intelligence makes the android appear human. Just visit the tools section of your Internet provider and you will see cookies and temporary Internet files that enable your favorite websites to retain preferences and display faster. Your computer’s browsing history, passwords and temporary files are stored there. The software and cameras used through the portholes of the eyes of an android allow it to capture and recall items as though it has vision. It can learn images characteristic of our brain and nervous system. Just as the robot Baxter uses patter recognition, the human android recognizes similarities among different things. Applications might include reading, writing, matching fingerprints, and even matching faces in photos as well (Baase, 2013). The Japanize government estimates that the human android market will rise tremendously in the next decade (Ishiguro, 2014).

Domestic applications
Robots continue to be used in homes. They complete the boring and simple chores we sometimes hate to do ourselves. One of the most popular robots used in the home is the vacuum cleaner. Not the old model with a handle that we push back and forth to clean the floor or carpet; the vacuum cleaner I am referring to operates on its own. This autonomous robotic vacuum cleaner is sometimes referred to as Robovac. Priced at around $500.00, it has intelligent programing that controls its mapping or vacuum cleaning system. Farm life is also made easier. For example, in 2010, "milking robots accounted for about 30% of all professional service robots (Pruthi, 2012).
Service robots are used for domestic use in a wide variety of areas. Parents use robot toys to keep their children occupied. And, there are robots used for hobbies and sports from golf to baseball.
Of course, a robot appears more social and less like a machine when it takes on the image of a person. An anthropomorphic (or robot made in the image and likeness of a human) elicits more natural responses. This is great for science research but it also aids in comforting and entertaining people with limited access to the environment−such as the sick and elderly at home. (MacDorman, 2006). In the near future, human androids such as the ones that the Japan are experimenting with will be used for domestic purposes as well as office and hospital use.

In addition to robots made in our image, we have artificial devices that replace body parts. These devices, called prosthetics, allow people who have lost a limb to function. Today, it is a common observation to see someone on TV or even in real life with an artificial arm or leg. Member of the House of Representatives, Tammy Duckworth, is a good example. You may have even heard of track and field competitors that have artificial limbs. Up until recently, these prosthetic devices ranged from an aesthetic functional device to a myoelectric device. The aesthetic device was designed more for appearance purposes. It enabled the amputee to better blend in and go unnoticed. The myoelectric device functions with the amputee’s muscle movements, reacting accordingly. Recently, the electronic artificial arm that responds to muscle movements from the body has evolved. Today, glimpses of the TV series, Bionic Man, come to life. The once muscle powered prostheses has now graduated to being a though-powered bionic arm. In a recent article in CNN Tech, we are introduced to what is referred to as, “The world’s most sophisticated bionic arm.” This device features an actual hand. In addition to general hand movements like holding or grabbing an item, the fingers of this bionic hand can be manipulated. It has 100 sensors, 26 joints, 17 motors and a tiny computer built into the palm of the robotic hand. This thought driven device begins by bringing to life the dead nerves of the residual body part. This is followed by a surgery that involved rewiring the electrical signals that are going down the missing limb and reroute them into existing muscles. Therefore, when the amputee has a thought about moving the missing limb, that muscle captures those signals and translates them into messages for the prosthetic limb (CNN Tech, 2014).

With technology growing as fast as it is today we can expect the human android and modern day prosthetics to become even more popular. Just like cell phones that were not so popular in the early 90’s became more affordable, so will human robots of every sort. With the popularity of cell phones as a measure, we can expect to have a robot of some sort in every home in the near future. However, before we move to the future, now that we have explored WHAT this science is, let us next look at WHEN it all began.

II. Historical Analysis
(Juan Martinez)
Beginnings of development It’s astonishing how technology has arisen making it possible for the production of human androids that serve various purposes in our society. However, more than one person may be curious to learn about the initial stages that inclined the need for such creation. In this case, a breakdown of key events is essential to trace the impact and feedback left behind. Additionally, it is fundamental to recognize these premature movements to understand the evolution as a whole.
To begin with, the interest in human robots has roots that go way back in time with the input of several historical personalities. According to one source, Leonardo da Vinci showcased his intelligence of interior human movement by offering sketches which portrayed lines that represented muscles and tendons of the human leg and shoulders. He then used his blueprints where he attempted to recreate a mechanical version of this on his own using lines, cords, and wires. In 1738, Jacques de Vaucanson was responsible for creating the first working robot. This android robot’s main task consisted of playing the flute (UKOBRATOVIC, M. K., 2007).
In general, the development of active exoskeletons encouraged the invention of human robots to be more serious. Active exoskeletons at one point provided great benefits to individuals with a high need of major assistance. This kind of technology was available in areas of assistance such as physical and working capacities, rehabilitation, and even the military. Later in time an opportunity to investigate on humanoid development became very hopeful. In fact, SANTOS is a Virtual Soldier that was originated so researchers from American universities analyzed this digital model. This particular model was modified so real human gestures were realistic as possible (UKOBRATOVIC, M. K., 2007). Hence, one can say that the primary foundation for humanoid development resulted from the key effectiveness of active exoskeletons. As a result, active exoskeletons have served to explore closer at how human bones and muscles work together to produce movements from different parts of the human body. In essence, a high amount of precision is required to enable humanoids to attain a greater physical performance.
Besides these steps presented in the development of human robotics, there’s current engagement in up-to-date research. Considering the modern world in which individuals live in it appears coherent that technology found in humanoids ought to be parallel with positive expectations. The majority of people may come into agreement that any humanoid should be suited to be as human as possible while overcoming any complications or misleads. Recently there has been a major ongoing focus in human robots, “in June 2011, U.S. President Obama announced the National Robotics Initiative, a $70 million effort to fund the development of robots “that work beside, or cooperatively with people”” (Wright, 2012). Humanoids have been developed to favorably carry items, utilize both legs to walk normally, and be around an unusual place. Nevertheless, much improvement should be in how they actually react to different surroundings, along with a boost in independence. A perfect example of a project that has been developed to assess this important feature is “Honda’s well-known AISMO robot employs a sophisticated array of sensors to detect and respond to external condition” (Wright, 2012). Eventually, one can determine that the development of humanoids is not as simple as what it seems. Information and discoveries in fragments have been crucial for apt alterations and producing final models.

Collection / organization of models invented
It is likely that the majority of people may wonder about the kind of humanoid models that have been invented thus far. On a typical Sunday afternoon someone would enjoy some football while feeling anxious and optimistic with latest occurrences and what’s ahead. However, one could never picture or distinguish between real commentators and humanoid substitutes. All of sudden it can become bizarre and unusual the idea that a pair of human robot commentators stand in transmitting suspense and offering a recap and opinion of a game. Though, humanoids must not be underestimated to serve in the entertainment domain as they previously participated in sports. In fact, a couple of human robot commentators has taken part in AIBO robot soccer games. The structure behind them implies several components. Above all, the “Puppet Master” feature is intended to take care of any unforeseen move during the game. Here actual humans can interpose to communicate any changes and recuperate the momentum. Moreover, a great amount of coordination among one another is essential. There are three tasks that play a role on how well events are known which include a game controller, individual and mutual vision, and as noted earlier the Puppet Master. Lastly, this unique set of realistic commentators requires a number of algorithms that supply additional knowledge needed to model a derived analysis from a real human (VELOSO, 2008). The U.S government has too shown a high interest in humanoids to assist and become part of innovated warfare technology. Some people may question if human robots are as efficient as humans in combat. In recent times, it was anticipated that the U.S. Navy would see a substantial addition. This independent firefighting humanoid robot has features that can be summed by the following, “SAFFiR’s joints feature muscle-like compliant linear actuators instead of rotary actuators, giving them more human like motion and allowing SAFFiR to maneuver narrow ship passageways while a carrying a high-tech fire extinguisher” (Woyke, 2011). Humanoids are potential enough to create replicas of humans. These replicas are beneficial to utilize and display in the world of cinemas and museums. Kokoro is a Japanese firm that along with Professor Hiroshi Ishiguro are well-known to have worked together in producing incredible human-like robots. From the three different age group of humanoids the most recent is one modeled after project collaborator Henrik Scharfe which is truly balanced but is perceived to still be robotic (Wright, 2012).

Latest innovation changes
After looking into the development initiatives as well as the collection of humanoid models created, it is important to also consider latest innovation alterations done until this point. For one, technology advancement vastly contributed in an emphasis to creating humanoids that are more life-like than ever before. Humanoids have been successfully developed to give a realistic impression. Their appearance consists of main characteristics such as skin tone, eye shape and color, hair style, body build, and among others. Believable human physical traits eventually can contribute in the way facial expressions are interpreted by others. Human robots do have the capacity of producing real facial expressions according to Tony Belapeme, who’s involved in discovering the interaction of newly humanoid models. Belapeme believes in what he refers to as “embodied cognition.” In other terms, human robots should undergo a learning phase in which they mimic how human intelligence is connected with human shape and actions. As a result these robotic humans can achieve interaction between individuals (Wright, 2012).
A great advancement that may soon take affect is that in which human androids are employed to increase production and services. With the technology incorporated, robots are suited to manage more efficiently the processes of manufacturing products. Humanoids that are located in these positions can become an advantage to companies while a downfall in employment opportunities for society. Corporations may experience a hike in profits with little to none investment in possible maintenance humanoids could entail. On the other side of the coin society would see a negative impact in a decline of being employed under such major firms. Nonetheless, the majority of online customers may appreciate this radical improvement and might be encouraged to make purchases more frequently. Online shopping sites today have allowed consumers to shop conveniently. It’s no secret to the public that Google owns much of the resources we rely on today whether for personal or professional usage. Although, they are focused to become Amazon’s top competitor. Google Inc. hopes to play a role in innovation changes by becoming highly interested in the development of human robots. These robots would be placed in areas like warehouses and manufacturing. Meka, Industrial Perception, and Schaft are some robotics companies that have been acquired by the popular search company corporation (Bercovici, 2013). Consequently, this will cause other forms of businesses to be renovated in getting at least the attention of former and new clients.

III. Political Factors (Juan Martinez)
Potential legal concerns The idea of having human android robots around doing human-like tasks sounds incredible as we’re in an era that surrounds high-tech devices. The days of seeing the first flying car aren’t too far away. However, there are many individuals who might deliberate on legal concerns and other issues that come into play. In the field of robots, a product liability lawsuit and insurance is essentially different. Product liability lawsuit would imply an accident due to an inefficient design or sudden defect. On the other hand, insurance exclusively covers when a robot is not disturb by an individual whereas the robot on its own has a failure with its designated performance. In addition, a liability issue is possible if human intervention is necessary to gain safety. As technology development becomes more complex the manufacturing of humanoid robots can be challenging to offer total reliability. Currently, there’s no legal positions that refer to humanoids in the workplace. According to philosophy Professor Samir Chopra holders could soon be held accountable for robots legally failing in inaccurate performances. A final legal approach is through the implementation of a licensing system for robots. As a result, this would permit human robots to be genuine. Most importantly, this move is targeted towards preventing individuals from making any alterations for other purposes that may involve causing harm to others (Kirkpatrick, 2013). Human android robots is a now a more serious subject when considering the legal measures that follow. Innovated technology has to be developed having in mind that users of such robots are aware of the rights they’re entitled to in any given scenario. The lack of establishing government rules on human robots can represent a great unreliability for future technologies ahead. Therefore, the best way is to identify and analyze the positive aspects brought to society with particular legality. Present manufacturing government rules As other countries like Japan begin to showcase their first properly active human android robots the United States doesn’t want to be left behind. The United States is making a great effort towards making robots of their own. Evidently, the U.S. government is in favor of humanoid manufacturing. In 2006, nearly $5 billion was funded to Professor Dennis Hong for research in robots. Hong succeeded at building America’s first full-size robots named CHARLI suited for chores. His lab in fact contributed to the building of a humanoid which is valued in $12,000. Another financed plan was made by the U.S. Navy which offered approximately $3 million to produce SAFFiR, known as Shipboard Autonomous Fire Fighting Robot. Above all, SAFFiR is meant to be waterproof. It is intended to have human like movement and the capability of maneuvering narrow ship passageways along with being equipped with a modern fire extinguisher (Woyke, 2011). The government has taken a major initiative in humanoid manufacturing through the investments made thus far. Perhaps an opportunity exists for other countries to partner up with the United States in building humanoids to be powerful and in less time to develop. Ultimately, the historical facts presented were very fundamental to explore as it portrays the evolution stages that made it promising for humanoids available. Acknowledging Leonardo di Vinci’s really takes one back to the actual consideration in this idea. Later, as active exoskeletons were preferred by the majority of individuals it promoted a further interest in conducting research. Today, funding this cause has turned out imperative as technology is advancing is more ways. Moving forward, an evaluation and a possible outlook on the economy is central to define.

***Add Part IV Economic section here ***

V. Psychological and Social Considerations
(Hazel Marie Roxas) Technology advancement has played a tremendous role in today’s society. Plenty can argue that technology has been made to make our everyday life much simpler, which results in favoring the inventions that has been created. However, others can argue that the advancement of technology that has been invented have caused individuals to believe that society is doing more than what is necessary which leads them to reject the ideas of new inventions. One of the biggest inventions that have been created is human android. A human android is a robot, a robot that has human-like characteristics. With the invention of human androids, society has taken two stances, which are to either accept or reject the ideas of having robots as a part of our day-to-day basis.

Acceptance With the technological advances that are happening in our world today, human robots have been built to be a part of our everyday life. We are given the opportunity to look at the bigger picture and see how this technology can benefit our society by accepting what is has to offer. According to Rick Nauert, the acceptance of human robots is depended on the social presence. “Designers and engineers assign robots specific roles, such as servant, caregiver, assistant or playmate. Researchers found that people expressed more positive feelings toward a robot that would take care of them than toward a robot that needed care” (Nauert, 2013). If a robot is built to serve or take care of the elderly, it is more likely that society will accept the fact that this form of technology is built in order to help us rather than harming us. The characteristics or roles of the human robot are one of the major components in which society decides on whether or not to welcome this form of technology. It is very important that a robot is represented in a way that allows us humans to feel connected with them. “‘When (humans) perceive greater benefit from the robot, they are more satisfied in their relationship with it, and even trust it more,’ said Sundar, who studies human-robot interaction at Penn State University” (Nauert, 2013). To be able to build a form of trust or any type of relationship with human androids, it portrays that humans are able to have an emotional interaction with technology. With the robots caring for our human needs, its social presence comes off much greater. “‘Social presence is particularly important in human-robot interactions and areas of artificial intelligence because the ultimate goal of designing and interacting with social robots is to provide users with strong feelings of socialness,’ said Kim (Nauert, 2013). By discovering ways to interact and connect with human androids, society can learn the benefits of what this technology has in store for our future. Human androids are not just some type of machinery that is built to be displayed. These robots are made in order to help us humans. However, engineers and robocists still have plenty of work that needs to be done before we can bring these robots in to our daily lives. “In June 2011, U.S. President Obama announced the National Robotics Initiative, a $70 million effort to fund the development of robots ‘that work beside, or cooperatively with people.’ The government sees a wide range of potential applications for human-friendly robots…” (Wright, 2012). By ensuring that these robots are safe, society can learn to accept the benefits it will provide. The development of humanoids can play a huge role in our economy. Human robots can be used in different work environments. An example would be in a factory. Human robots can perform tasks that humans my find very tedious and time consuming. Unlike humans who may need breaks from working, robots are not capable of getting tired. Robots can perform tasks more efficiently at a faster rate. By having this form of technology on a day-to-day basis, work can be done in a shorter amount of time, which allows companies to save more money. This also gives companies the opportunity to increase their revenue. Human robots are not only built to perform manual labor. Human androids have also been used as a part of a research study. An experiment that has been conducted is seeing how human robots interact with others as a form of companionship. A research study was performed where a robot was built and programmed to have characteristics to of a therapist and playmate to children with autism. Children with autism tend to find people intimidating, making it very hard for them to socialize or even feel comfortable around them. “Yet there is increasing evidence that kids with autism respond more naturally to machines than they do to people” (Mone, 2010). By having a robot who looks much like an actual human being, children with autism feel that they have a form of security without having to be afraid, as they do with real humans. For an autistic child to have a form of interaction, it portrays that the invention of human robots can help kids with autism feel more comfortable around others. Plenty of parents take their kids to therapist to help improve their social skills. Robots can help therapists and parents understand what is good for the child and what makes them feel nervous or scared. Therapists can make a good use of these robots by having them around during therapy sessions. Children with autism will feel more comfortable to act like themselves when robots are around, which makes it easier for therapist to examine their movements, their behavior, what causes them to become nervous, happy, etc. This can help therapists track its progress, which can be very helpful to the parents. With the help of human androids, therapists will get a better understanding of kids with autism. This is one of the benefits of having robots as a part of our society. By accepting them, we can find new developments that can lead to dramatic changes in our lives. There is so much more to human like robots than using them in companies to perform labor that no one is willing to do. There are ways that can human androids can perform handy tasks like helping the elderly. Since there can only be a limited amount of workers and volunteers in retirement homes it can be hard for them to watch everyone. What if there are workers that can watch them without getting tired, and tend to them every hour on the hour. The problem with human workers is they can’t take care of the elderly everyday. We all come down with sicknesses and can’t come in contact with the elderly because of weak immunity. Now, think about human androids and how they can’t get sick and always attend to people who can really need the attention. This will not be taking the jobs from the caretakers, think of it as unpaid help. Help that operates 24/7, and can take care of the elderly without having to become fatigued. This can help the acceptance of human robots in society because the androids help with taking care of other human beings.
Rejection
Although there are those who are in favor of human robots and the benefits they provide, there are also others who reject the idea of having them in our daily lives. One of the fears that humans have about human androids is that plenty of people are going to become unemployed as the robots replace them. With companies buying human androids, it is a one-time investment. Unlike real humans, you don’t have to continuously pay wages. Companies will realize that their investment with these robots will save them plenty of money in the long run. Business owners wouldn’t have to worry about worker’s compensation, paid vacations, and other forms of benefits. With robots being highly advanced, plenty of people will lose their jobs. There is poverty around the world and by creating human robots it will take away opportunities for those are in need of jobs. Even jobs that don’t require plenty of experience or skill can be taken away from humans. This causes a problem because there are people who rely on these jobs to survive on a daily basis. This is one of the biggest reasons why people fear the idea of having human androids. Another idea for rejection is that people will become anti social. According to the article “Japan’s humanoid robots: Better than people”, it states that, “Interacting with other people can be difficult for the Japanese, he says, ‘because they always have to think about what the other person is feeling, and how what they say will affect the other person.’ But it is impossible to embarrass a robot, or be embarrassed, by saying the wrong thing” (“Japan’s humanoid robots: Better than people”, 2005). By having humanoid robots there are individuals who will feel comfortable speaking or interacting with them rather than real life human beings. This causes individuals to become anti-social. Anti-socialism already exists in society because of games, smart phones, and computers taking over our personal lives. By having human robots in our society, it will only make the situation worse. There are people who favor the idea of having robots as a form of companionship. However, there are also others who do not believe in supporting this idea. The biggest reason why people reject the idea of human robots is because robots do not act like real humans. Although, they are programmed to work like real humans, they cannot react to situations in the same way humans would. There are children with autism who may feel comfortable with human androids. However, not all children will feel safe to be around them. It is normal for children with autism to have anxiety attack and real life therapist and humans would know what to do. On the other hand, human robots would not know how to react. It can make the problem worse because the androids will not know what to do when the kids have these attacks. Another concern the society has is having human androids as a companion for the elderly. If robots were to watch an elder, and they fall down, robots would not react the same way as humans. If they fall down and robots decide to pick up the person, they can possibly hurt the elder. These are flaws that these robots have and may contribute to the rejection of the idea. It makes a great case that not all jobs are well suited for these robots and they are not needed in society. In conclusion there are two sides to this argument. The ones that accept the idea of having human androids in our society and the benefits that it provide. They feel that human androids are an asset and could help with daily activities. They are a one-time investment and provide a great deal of help to any organization. Now, there is the other side of the argument where people reject the idea of having the robots in our society. The fear of jobs being taken is not an option for us human beings. Most people need jobs to provide for their well-being and their families. If the androids were to take their positions it can be a great deal of worry. The argument is still up for grabs, and it will continue until society determines what these androids are needed for. As for now, more research is needed to be done in able to make these robots flawless for society to accept them fully.
VI. Cultural Considerations
(Amilcar Vasquez)
It is interestingly enough to see and experience what a human-like robot actually looks like. There could be plenty of questions and ideas when it comes to creating, innovating, and basically putting together a device that very well lies within everyone’s future all over the world. This idea of human-like robots has caught many individuals attention all over the world, and has been an ongoing topic for many years. Many can picture what a human-like robot can look like because of the fact that they are seen in famous films, posters, magazines, news articles, and even national and international conventions. There are robotic conventions taken place all over the world, and hundreds if not millions of people from all around the globe attend these conventions with the opportunity to see or even present the latest prototype of a human-like robot. The question that can almost certainly come across the individual making a human-like robot is What will the overall outcome of the prototype do? The answer to the previous question can rely upon many factors, some of which can be the individual’s basic needs, culture, professional background in reference to career, or simply an individual’s likes and thought of his or her very own human-like robot. One can infer that if someone were to build a human-like robot than the function of the prototype would be to do things that a normal human being would do, however, considering the many factors, some of which were previously stated, a sample question or statement might be, Is there a difference from a human-like robot built in the United States, than in China? And if so, What is the difference of the use of technology from the United States and China? This section of the report will consist information on the foreign production of human-like robots and United States production of human-like robots. In addition to informing about the productions between nations, it will contain information that pertains to the difference in expectation of human-like robots as well as a comparison of the use of technology. The comparison will be subject to human-like robots from the United States and what are considered to be some of the world’s most advance nations in information and technology. In order to come to an idea or an understanding of the differences in foreign productions of human-like robots to US productions, one might need to think about and have knowledge upon what a nations rank may be in reference to their information in technology and communications ladder. This placement of ranking in a ladder is composed of a list of nations from the most advanced in technology to the least. This ranking in relation to technological advancement between nations was established in the Global Information Technology Report 2013, which results were made from an analytical point of view. A nation’s rank was determined from a study and analysis of many different factors such as economic growth, how prepared and the use of advancements in a technological aspect ("Global information technology," 2013). The ranking of nation’s information in technology and communication’s is as listed: “Finland (1st), Singapore (2nd) and Sweden (3rd) continue to lead the NRI, with the Netherlands (4th), Norway (5th), Switzerland (6th), the United Kingdom (7th), Denmark (8th), the United States (9th) and Taiwan, China (10th) completing the top 10” ("Global information technology," 2013). The report shows that Finland is at the top of the ladder proving that it is the most advanced in a technological aspect while the United States stands at ninth place. This information ultimately shows that the United States has some work to do in order to reach the top spot. However, there are many reasons why some countries lack in a technological aspect, “most developing economies lag behind advanced economies due to environments that are insufficiently conducive to innovation and competitiveness” ("Global information technology," 2013). This information clearly depicts one of the reasons why a country might not be as advanced in technology being stated that there are many countries that either poverty dominates and is reason in preventing any kinds of innovation, also the lack of interest where a countries leader might not allow or focus its main concern in. It is possible that other countries may obtain more of interest or at a higher rank in other focuses such as crop production, or other areas.
Foreign Production It is amazingly enough to witness some of the latest and earliest prototypes of human-like robots made in the United States. Many American made human-like robots can be seen today in places such as robotic conventions, large production factories that focus on technological material, and inside major company buildings where the latest technology is made such as the Motorola offices near downtown Chicago. One could only be curious in thinking about human-like prototypes built in foreign countries, and they might differ from those in the US. When it comes to human-like robots, one would most likely expect to see a robot most likely looks and functions similar to a human being. This very own idea of building a human-like robot that is almost identical to a human being is the same idea that roboticist Hiroshi Ishiguro from Osaka University, Japan, had in mind when constructing his very own robot. In article “Hiroshi Ishiguro: The Man Who Made a Copy of Himself” by IEEE journalist Eric Guizzo, it mentions that roboticist Ishiguro believed that the best way to build himself a human-like robot would be to actually have one that will look and act exactly like himself. Ishiguro’s robot is consisted of the following materials; “silicone rubber, pneumatic actuators, powerful electronics, and hair from his own scalp” (Guizzo, 2010). This human-like robot was made with very humanistic features such eyebrows, a head with hair on top, a body figure of the same frame as Ishiguro, eyes, mouth, and many other human body features. This human-like robot was an exact if not close enough version of himself, more like the win that he never had, therefore, he decided that the perfect name for his project would be Geminoid HI-1, where the first half of the name is Latin for twin. It functions remotely through Ishiguro’s computer along with the use of a microphone where the robot reinstates whatever Ishiguro says, and controls much of its body movements through a camera which enables the robot to copy Ishiguro’s exact body movements. In addition, this machine is made to capture and imitate whatever it is Ishiguro does, even blink its eyes, twitching, and how a human would appear breathing. Although this robot performs many humanistic features and movements, Ishiguro mentions that it is fairly impossible for his robot to have human behaviors such as think on its own and have its own feelings (Guizzo, 2010). This idea that Ishiguro depicts verbally and through his human-like robots “is that robots will one day help people with a multitude of tasks-they’ll do household chores, care for the elderly, assist with physical therapy, monitor the sick at hospitals, tech classes, serve cappuccinos at Starbucks” (Guizzo, 2010). His ideal future seems to depend on robotic advancement in order to save and make the lives of humans easier with the help of human-like robots. Ishiguro has brought much attention to audiences like television news reporters and many other roboticists around the world, and setting a higher standard for the next human-like robot. Much of this attention and purpose is to show individuals the how fast and popular human-like robots and robotic surrogacy has become. It is just amazing to know how many of the individuals making these humanistic prototypes work very hard to construct this imitation of a real human being. The ultimate goal and purpose of building human-like robots is to make them as human as possible such as Ishiguro’s prototype, and eventually persuading others that this new technology can and will be our future’s greatest help. As we have learned about roboticist Hiroshi Ishiguro’s twin human-like robot that looks almost exactly like Ishiguro with his exact human features and ability to portray any body movement and facial expression that Ishiguro does, there is another human-like robot that can also portray facial expressions; this one actually does sixteen different types of facial expressions. In article “Robot to take starring roles in South Korea”, a human-like robot named Ever-3 by the state-run Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, is portrayed as a human-like star robot and was even an extra in many dramas in South Korea. This particular human-like robot stands at about five feet two inches. It is able to communicate in both Korean and the English language. The human-like robot Ever-3 is one of filmmaker’s best friend with the ability of capturing many individuals attention and most significantly never forgetting a line in a particular role play ("Robot to take," 2010). This robot seems to be broadways sensation, and one that’s spot light could ever turn off because of the attention it gets due to the fact that there is a human-like robot with many features that a live human being would have and most importantly being equipped to portray a number of facial expressions. One could imagine how important lines may be in a film and how facial expression help portray the message or feeling that the actor tries to portray, and the fact that this can all be done to perfection with a human-like robot can only make a movie film or live play much more interesting. According to scientist Lee Ho-Gil from Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, one of the major purposes behind Ever-3 is the recognition from many of the individuals that are also interested in building human-like robots and hope that the project can help get more people from South Korea involved in robotics and technology as stated in his own words, “South Korea is an active frontier in developing robots and we thought that making it would be a good way to promote our technology” ("Robot to take," 2010). This statement clearly shows that South Korea also plans to further and continue working on building human-like robots that function close enough to the abilities of a human being. Another incredible and foreign human-like robot is called Geminoid DK by Pof. Henrik Sharfe of Aalborg University in Denmark. This project was created in a group of roboticist’s from Denmark and Tokyo, Japan. This project is relative to Ishiguro’s human-like robot due to both Ishiguro himself and Sharfe, the creator and twin of Geminoid DK. Geminoid DK can also perform all of the functions that Ishiguro’s human-like robot performs such as mirror any body movements that its user does along with facial expressions, controlled by a computer, and repeating what the user has said. However, Prof. Sharfe’s Geminoid (twin), his goal is “find out if the robot can transmit a person's "presence" to a remote location and whether cultural differences in people's acceptance of robots make a difference” (Ackerman, 2011). This idea differs from Ishiguro’s Geminoid that only focuses on imitating the body movement, some facial expressions, and repeat what the user says though a microphone, it will focus more on carrying out actual conversations with real human beings and see how humans would react after knowing it is a robot. This type of interaction between humans and human-like robots can help roboticist’s innovate their robots communication and language attributes so that the human as well as a robot can work together and communicate in a way that two normal human beings would with positive feedback and fully carry out a conversation. This type of study can be of great benefit to individuals that work in technology in communication, therefore, there can be some type of input or program that will allow this communication to exist between a human-like computer and a human being such as the program Siri that exist on smart phones like the iphone where the individual says the programs name and the program responds to what the individuals need is at the moment like send a text message, locator, or search the web. When it comes to picturing or imagining what a robot would look like or some of the specific functions it would do, much of the features that come to mind can be from famous films like Star wars or Robocop where the robot is this super smart computer and do things that a human couldn’t do. The Aldebarab Nao robot is one of the famous names one will hear in the robotic world when it comes to a human-like robot that was made for research and educational reasons. The Nao robot was first developed in a robotics company in Paris. It has made its way through many academic institutions such as Tokyo, Saudi Arabia and India. The Nao does not quite look very human like, however, its functions and figure is humanly enough. The Nao’s is equipped with many interesting features being a “fully-programmable and interactive humanoid robot equipped with state-of-the-art motion, vision, tactile and audio capabilities” (Kaistaats, 2014). This robot is loved and catches the attention by many parents due to the fact that the Nao is an instructional type of robot that can teach a number of subjects to according to age and educational level. It is currently used for educational and research purposes all over the world. The Nao can also “walk on different surfaces, track and recognize faces or objects, express and understand emotions, react to touch and communicate by voice” (Kaistaats, 2014). This human-like robot can definitely be of great benefit in the educational field in helping young children with any educational need and can very well fit in a scientific environment.
U.S. Production The idea of human-like robots has certainly been on the minds of many Americans for quite some time. With the advancement and great success in technological innovation, famous film robots like Star Wars C-3PO, R2-D2 and others like WALL-E and Robo Cop have motivated and inspired many American built robots today. A great example of how Americans have established a connection between humans and robots can clearly be depicted in the movie iron man. This particular action/superhero movie was a film that everyone wanted to watch, and it made millions the very first week it came out. The film was based on one of America’s greatest scientist creating this wearable armored suit with the purpose of helping the country’s military defense. It portrayed the idea of great relationship between a human being and robotics. The film can easily help understand the benefits of robotics, and how a human can depend and use technology to build things that can change the lives of many. One of the most famous robots due to its social intelligence was founded and came to life in Plano, Texas. The name of this human-like robot is BINA48, which stands for “breakthrough Intelligence via Neural Architecture, 48 exaflops per second processing speed and 480 exabytes of memory” ("Bina48 is first," 2012). BINA48 is also very recognized from being one of the most human-like robots ever made. This particular project resembles a typical nanny that one would see in movies with short white hair, and a white cardigan.BINA48 was created and programmed by roboticist David Henson, which idea was to create one of the first human-like robots, with very similar humanistic features, to be able to carry out a complete conversation on any given topic. BINA48 is able to expand her knowledge, and learn how to use words as well as put them together in a complete sentence. It is said that BINA48 had the privilege of being in a live conference as she helped “keynote the Enterprise Learning! Conference & Expo 2012** on September 26 in Irvine, California — the first humanoid robot in history to do so” ("Bina48 is first," 2012). Given the opportunity to have taken part in this conference with real human’s only shows how incredible this human-like robot is, and shows the communication individuals can have with robots. This next human-like robot does not quite look like any ordinary human, but it is actually classified as a humanoid which has resembles a human being. It has the body shape of a human and also has two arms, two legs, a torso and a head. It is equipped with 28 hydraulically actuated joints and two sets of hands which allow it to do things a human can such as walk, talk, grab and even go up and down ladders (Cass, 2013). Atlas is just a fascinating robot to catch a glimpse of. It was “built by Boston Dynamics for the DARPA Robotics Challenge (DRC), whose goal is to advance disaster response robotics” (Cass, 2013). This information helps conclude that robots can actually be of great benefit for those hurt during major disasters such as a massive flood or any natural disasters as well. The many features that Atlas was equipped with gives this particular prototype a hero type figure when individuals are in need of help. Another fascinating human-like robot built in the U.S. is named CHARLI. It is also equipped with two legs, two arms, feet and it has a head. CHARLI does many of the basic features that one may think a typical human-like robot can do such as being “capable of walking in all directions as well as turning, kicking, and performing gestures and simple upper body manipulation tasks” ("Charli: Cognitive humanoid," 2012). Although CHARLI’s functions all seem typical enough, he was actually one of the first humanoid robots created in the United States. ChARLI was built by a group of students out of Virginia Tech University located in Blacksburg, Virginia, and was built in hopes of being able to compete with some of the current human-like robots at the time. CHARLI was the first prototype built that allowed the students to fully get a grasp on the technology required to master the ability of having CHARLI perform any body movement a human can do. There was also a second and more advanced prototype of CHARLI, named CHARLI-2 becoming a more innovated prototype in “stability and speed in walking, intelligence and autonomy, and soccer playing skills” ("Charli: Cognitive humanoid," 2012). This information shows the success and innovation from one human-like prototype to a more intelligent and advanced prototype. The advancement of technology with is what brings innovation to the world. Americans, as well as many around the world have used technology to innovate many things that human beings rely on or have need of. There are many examples of how individuals have used technology to help many around the world and bring innovation such as the creation of smart phones, smart cars, machinery used on farms which are used to help with the production of crops, and many more. In America, it is the ongoing success of technological innovation and inspiration behind the many capabilities that technology offers which catches the attention of many. The information stated throughout this section of the paper shows that the United States has yet made it to the top of the ladder when it comes to our rank in technological advancement, however, it is of great importance to help inspire many to think about new ideas, and get more involved with technology in order to maintain competitiveness with other nations. The information provided only shows what was once a single individual’s idea of a project can become a life changing experience for others in the future. As we have covered much of the cultural considerations in topic human androids, the following will inform on environmental implications in further detail.

PART VII – Environmental Implications
(Theresa Keefer)
Safety
The final issues we will discuss will be the implications for our environment as far as ensuring a safer society and the possible threats that androids may present. In addition we will delve into the moral and ethical implications that arise while using androids and robots as we improve our own lives and the challenging code of ethics this presents.
Androids are no longer a creation or invention of the future. They are a presentable phenomenon in our society. One of the biggest concerns for them is the safety of the people as they are put to use alongside us in society. This is a concern for all new technologies but industrial and social robotics present new challenges to human safety. Safety rules must be established and adhered to in order to prevent accidents or misuse of robots.
As of now most robots are actually implemented in society to contribute to increased human safety. There are robots such as rescue robots or robots that are ordered to operate in dangerous environments. One such example is the iRobot. According to Freedman (2006), “iRobot is delivering some twenty-five robots per month to the U.S. military for tasks such as finding explosive devices, checking caves, and carrying payloads.” That is a use that could save immeasurable amounts of human soldiers’ lives. Instead of human soldiers entering into a dark, blind cave to apprehend terrorists, a nonhuman robot is sent in ahead. We can all understand the dangers of wartime our military endures every day and the lives that can be saved with the use of these robots. As this is being written there is probably a robot out in a mine field looking for a safe way for our military men and women to cross.
They are being used in the civilian world as well. Cockelbergh (2010), in an article says that we have robots not only in industrial contexts but also the social sphere. We have entertainment robots, toy robots, nursing robots, sex robots, and educational robots and the prevalence is only expected to increase over the next few decades. Some exciting uses for them that promote public safety are uses in the medical field. One example is the risk of back injuries in medical professionals. Just one injury can cause lost work days or years of crippling pain. One day a robot known as HAL might help. It is short for hybrid assistive limb and is created by the Tokyo based company Cyberdine. It is a wearable robot limb that is used to increase the lifting power so that it will reduce the likelihood of a nurse or other patient assistant will injure themselves while moving a patient for example.
The implications for this type of technology could be used in any type of physically straining job. Honda is also in the prototype stage of development of its own robot that will hopefully reduce back strain injuries in all types of jobs that require manual labor (Sullivan 2012). Robots are used to function as inspectors in dangerous settings as well. Sensabot is a robot that does just exactly that. It was created by Carnegie Mellon University’s National Robotics Engineering Center. For example, where temperatures can reach 100 degrees to 35 below the Sensabot can assess the condition of things such as pipes, valves, pumps, motors, and bearings with its sensing capabilities while the human operator can remain a safe distance away from any harm.
There are robots that do a variety of tasks now that in the past had to be done by humans posing great risk to their safety. Robots will allow new ways that businesses operate and new technologies will need less safety features as before since the operators will be safely out of the way of any danger. No longer will they even have to enter the dangerous situations that previously required human inspection. Unfortunately for now, price is the biggest deterrent to making these robots commonplace.

Possible Threats
Because of motion picture films many are afraid of the autonomy of robots. However, we are currently in a position where most robots today require some type of overseeing by humans. Humans will need to be in control of these robots in order for them to perform their tasks. Because of this control there is not much concern for human safety in regards to robots at this present time. What the future holds is still unknown, but as robots develop more artificial intelligence and the ability to have cognitive responses, then more issues will arise which we will discuss later with the moral and ethical implications of robots. At this point robots are here to help and not to take over. In fact, with all the technology surrounding us, it is fair to say that the world needs robots. Of course there will still be people needed to operate, maintain, repair, and direct the robots. In fact this could create more jobs for those adept with the knowledge required to perform these tasks. In just five years we could be seeing these types of robots as commonplace in our work environments. In ten years, anything is possible.
As was previously stated, there are those that fear the intelligence of robots and fear that they will try to take over. Therefore, we must be prepared to implement safety precautions to ensure that they do what they are designed to do. We want them to aid us in making a safer society and not increase or endanger present situations. As long as we are conscientious in our endeavors I do not see this as being a problem. We are the ones who have created them and therefore we are the ones who will be able to control them. Autonomous or not they still require programming by a human and of course a power source providing two different ways to regulate any adverse situation that may occur. However, there are still concerns as development increases to allow even more autonomy to robots.
In fact, if we look back into history we will see that all creations of high intelligence run the risk of being unscrupulous and destructive. We’ve all seen the movies where robots have taken over and forced human society from existence. This is the fear that many critics have of the development of these technological advancements. Fortunately at this point we haven’t reached the point of total autonomy but at what point will we? How will we determine the limits that we want the robots to reach without human intervention? Will they actually live among side us? Will we be going to work, riding on the subway, or even driving on the highways with them at some point? These are the questions that unfortunately cannot be answered at the present time and must be waited out. The steps we take now to ensure the safety of our society as we step into a new realm of development will determine the final outcomes.
On a personal note, I must interject that I do not believe that robots will ever overtake our society. As mentioned before, they are created and designed by a human, which means that we know all of their faults and all of their devices right down to the last computer chip. The human brain is complex and largely unknown. Recreating it is virtually impossible at this point although great strides have been made in understanding how the human brain functions. It is this knowledge that allows us to begin to create the human android at all. Knowing what we do at this point has allowed us to make great strides in robotic development allowing for all sorts of applications but a takeover of the robots seems unlikely at this point. What is concerning is how we as a society will deal with the implementation of robots into our lives. How will we cope with the takeover of jobs for example?
Since all robots are man-made there is a good indication that we will not have to worry too much about jobs as long as you are educated. The real concerns come with the manual labor workforce. Currently working in a gas station/ convenience store I can see the day where a robot could do my job. Cleaning responsibilities and ringing up customers can easily be automated. There are already devices that clean themselves such as self-cleaning ovens. Preparing food is also often automated as well. Going through the self -checkout at my local grocery store I find myself pondering why I am employed at all. I suppose there is something to be said for customer service but the job itself could be performed for many years without having to pay a person. A one time purchase of a robot could easily replace me at some point in time. Fortunately, I will have my education so that I will no longer be employed there anyway.
What these concerns lead us to is how we will treat these robots. Will we treat them as companions or will they be treated as invaders taking away our livelihoods? This question leads us to our next consideration of just how we will cope morally and ethically with the new developments that are sure to come with the advancement of robotics.

Part VIII – Moral and Ethical Considerations
(Theresa Keefer)
Improving life We’ve already discussed the many ways that androids will be able to improve our lives on a day to day basis but we haven’t touched on the ways that they will be able to improve our emotional lives. Future advancements could one day offer a companion for those who have lost a spouse or someone who is alone. We as a society need each other and without some type of human contact we can become withdrawn, depressed, and even suicidal. Robots may one day be implemented in mental health applications as well as a possibility. The widowed spouse could have a companion that will help them perform daily chores. The elderly could become more self-sufficient with a robot companion that could drive them to doctor’s appointments and even remind them to take medications. Many of these menial tasks could be performed by future robots freeing up doctors and nurses to attend to more serious patient concerns. Other applications as mentioned before that are already in place could be heavy lifting of objects preventing injury to manual laborers. When I think of this application I cannot help but think of my own spouse who lives with daily, agonizing back pain due to falling off a slippery bumper while unloading a truck. He ruptured two discs in his back requiring three surgeries only to reinjure himself years later while lifting a bag of onions over his head onto a shelf. He knew he shouldn’t be performing the task and even let his supervisors know but they were short staffed and needed it to be done. Realizing those were the only hours that were available to him, he took them regrettably. Today he is still in pain and exploring other options for relief through advanced technology of a spinal cord stimulator that re-routes the pain so that the patient is provided with relief. If he had been able to use something such as the HAL he might not have been reinjured. I also think of my aging mother who has recently lost her spouse. My father passed away last year after battling multiple myeloma. She is often lonely although my sister lives with her currently. My sister works full time and is often away when mom needs help. With the help of a domestic robot, many of the chores she finds difficult would be possible without the aid of another person gaining her autonomy. Recently she has begun using and Ipad to communicate but what if she had someone to talk to and express her thoughts with? Perhaps some of time she wouldn’t feel so alone improving her mental health state. As a far stretch I think of the 80’s sitcom entitled “Small Wonder” where a father creates a robotic daughter Viki. Will people soon be ordering their own children on Amazon? This is a far stretch but one that is not totally beyond the imagination. People who could not have children would have the option of a having a child. Although it would never be a human child it could still provide some comfort to those as an option. Obviously, these are far reaching things from the movies yet we are on the right track to creating them. If and when they do arrive we will be then dealing with a new set of situations. Just how will we treat them? Should they have rights as people do? Or should we treat them as property? This leads us into our next topic of ethics.
Challenging Code of Ethics People will be the ones to create them but with the advances of artificial intelligence will it be fair to treat robots as property? Already we are creating robots with humanoid characteristics such as the ability to learn. When considering this we must consider other ethical issues. Humans are considered to be intelligent and sentient. Having feelings and emotions is a big part of being human but is that our only criteria to obtaining rights. Who will we blame when things go wrong? Will we blame the robot or the creator? Of course today we are not quite there but “in the future cognitive robots will move freely and work in close interaction with humans” (Dodig Crnkovic, G., & Çürüklü, B.2011). People have already formed attachments to some of the robots already in place such as ASIMO. When there are team members of both robotics and human origin the lines may become blurred. What happens if a robot is implemented as the team leader? How will this affect the moral of the human employees? There is research already being done into implementing synthetic emotions in robots. Should we consider their feelings? Artificial intelligence is growing by leaps and bounds causing us to consider all these questions. Many would say that they have no rights but there are those that would speak differently on this issue. Take for example animals. “Traditionally, only humans are considered to be capable of moral agency. The basis of the human capability of action is intention. Intentionality enables learning from mistakes, regret of wrongs and wish to do right – all of which are seen as typically human abilities” (Dodig Crnkovic, G., & Çürüklü, B.2011). The issue is that artificial intelligence is making such strides that it is quite possible for robots to become so advanced that we will have no problem in assigning them intentions. If this occurs, we will have satisfied both of the requirements for human capability. How will we consider them then? Animals are one such example yet we have measures in place protecting animal rights so why not robot rights? We have a moral obligation to consider these factors and the ethical implications that will be brought on as technology advances. Suppose one has a companion robot and is witnessed abusing the robot in some way to where the robot is perceived to be in pain. We have to consider if these things are just or not. If we consider the robot to be just property then who do we blame when the autonomous robot is causing injury to a person? Is the robot to blame and we order it to be “put to sleep” or is the owner at fault. All these questions will be issues that we may very well have to consider in the very near future. One way would be to create a corrective mechanism in the robot that would allow it to feel regret or remorse through synthetic emotions that will prevent it from repeating its mistakes. If we are able to create robots that are sentient then we must consider the ramifications. Any being that can feel and express a desire that their own welfare matters to them must be considered in having rights. Going back to the animal debate we can argue that animals certainly care about their own welfare. They have feelings, desires, and a will to live. Anyone with an animal can attest to that fact. My own cats let me know their desires through their constant mewing and pawing at me when they are out of food or want attention. If I ignored them then I would be doing an injustice to my beloved pets. Wouldn’t the same be true of an android companion? I believe so. Treating robots as if they are purely mechanical beings while having the ability to generate real feelings and emotion would be the same as slavery. No one believes that slavery is just and that is why we have emancipated slavery in this country. Shouldn’t we treat our robot companions at least as well as we would slaves? Women were not always treated ethically either. Everyone knows that there was a time where women were treated as beneath men and some many argue that it still exists but we are constantly working to even the gaps. We have worked over many years to treat women, slaves, and even animals more ethically. We even assign rights and values to infants in the womb at a certain stage and many are fighting to give infants even more rights before they are born. Infants are neither very interactive nor are they highly autonomous yet we give them a high value. We must consider these implications when deciding how we will treat our android companions as well. At this point in time robots are just not at that point of sentience yet. We are making considerable progress with them and will eventually have to make some of these difficult decisions. Whether we like it or not, progress is infinite and robotics is becoming more and more incorporated into our society. I for one am excited about these prospects and hope that we as a society will be able to make appropriate decisions when the time comes. In the mean time we must sit and ponder the what-ifs. We must keep one thing in mind. We do not necessarily want robots to behave exactly like humans. That is what makes us human. What we do want is for them to perform as ideal humans, yet performing tasks efficiently and accurately. Most of the time they do. Our real concerns lie in how we will approach the human vs. the non-human considerations. The good news is that we still have a long way to go in achieving this level of autonomy in robots so we have some time. We should spend this time pondering the future and what it may bring in order to make appropriate decisions when they are needed. As a final thought I would like to add that the possibilities are endless when considering what we as a species can create. The human race has developed incredibly in the last ten years even. Cell phones and computers being some of the greatest advances. Being able to communicate half way around the world face to face with another person was unheard of twenty years ago. Now I speak with my Aunt in India, there working on a project, weekly. Without advancements these things would not be possible. Instead of fearing the unknown we should become educated about it and dive into it knowing that even better things are to come.

*Note: On this sheet insert your references only in alphabetical order. Also, feel free to edit and/or amend to the thesis statement above.
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