Will advanced robots blur the line between humans and machines?

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Advanced robots are already narrowing the gap between humans and machines, raising ethical and legal questions

Scientists say recent robotic breakthroughs in Japan are bringing a future closer where it is difficult to tell humans and machines apart. Roboticist Hiroshi Ishiguro, who says computers have already surpassed human ability and that robots will become very clever soon, has even created an android copy of himself for overseas business trips. The shift is also expected to trigger moral and legal debates as robots become more humanlike and people form attachments.
Japan’s robots are doing real-world work beyond labs
In Japan, robots are already performing tasks such as cooking noodles, assisting in physiotherapy, and helping with the cleanup after the 2011 Fukushima nuclear meltdown. The same broader trend is reflected in other places too, including South Korea, where jellyfish-terminating robots are used. These examples point to robots moving from demonstrations into day-to-day and specialised operations.
Ishiguro’s androids aim to look and behave more human
Ishiguro says he has overcome the “uncanny valley” described by Masahiro Mori, a theory that suggests robots resembling humans too closely can feel creepy. He has created an android copy of himself, describing it as something he can pack into two suitcases for travel, with a fragile head carried as carry-on baggage. He also predicts that “everyone is going to have an android,” framing the expectation around people wanting additional options and support, including for handicapped individuals.
Reactions in hospitals show potential for acceptance, including among children
Research by Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) tested reactions to androids in hospital sessions, including with children with autism spectrum disorder. Among 85 subjects, four said they thought the robots were scary, while the overall reaction was largely positive. This is presented as evidence that humanlike robots can be encountered in sensitive settings without widespread fear.
Legal and moral uncertainty grows as emotional attachment increases
Ishiguro argues that relationships with androids will deepen as people become more familiar with them, and he links this expectation to Pepper’s planned public sale in February for US$2,000 (RM6,360). He also warns that moral problems may arise when robots become emotionally significant, including situations where people hesitate to “pull the switch” and where courts may need to discuss harm involving androids. The concerns echo themes from films like “Blade Runner,” which features genetically engineered “replicants” visually indistinguishable from humans, and “Her,” which explores attachment to an intelligent operating system.

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Will advanced robots blur the line between humans and machines?

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