NationStates Jolt Archive


In light of the robots are equal proposal

THAPOAB
27-05-2005, 00:46
Since theres discussion on whether sentient robots are equal, I suggest we work out a few things about sentient robots. Perhaps a proposal should be written regulating the construction of sentient robots, for the good of mankind (we dont want any Terminatoresque scenerios popping up).

I think we should simply require all nations who allow the construction of sentient robots to follow Three Laws of Robotics, as written by Isaac Asimov.

They are:

1. A robot may not injure a human being, or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.

2. A robot must obey the orders given it by human beings except where such orders would conflict with the First Law.

3. A robot must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Law.

Also there is a zeroth law of robotics which states that a robot may not injure HUMANITY, or, through inaction, allow HUMANITY to come to harm.

These laws are so fundamentally ingrained in a robot's programming that they simply cannot function if something goes wrong with them. All logical processes are based on these laws, and without them a robot is unable to make any logical decisions.

I propose we resolve that it be required for all development of sentient robots to be constructed on these principles. The principles protect humans from robots, and to a certain extent robots from humans. Once these laws are in place, more complicated issues about sentient robots can be handled.

Tell me what you think. Yes? No? Stupid idea?
Rogue Newbie
27-05-2005, 00:48
I replied to this at the first place you mentioned it...
Frisbeeteria
27-05-2005, 00:55
It's been written up as a proposal before. I think 1 Inifinte Loop and somebody did it together.

In the meantime, don't split off topics unless you have a new proposal. Just use the other one.

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=421360