Journal article
Legal Rights for Robots by 2060?
Knowledge Futures: Interdisciplinary Journal of Futures Studies, Vol.1(1)
2017
Abstract
As autonomous, intelligent machines that perform functions in a human way, robots are set to become an increasing reality in the everyday lives of human beings (Zhao, 2006, p. 402). Humans, from children to soldiers, are already connecting to robots on a social and emotional level and in parts of East-Asia, like Japan, robots are perceived as having a spiritual nature (Kitano, 2006, p. 79). Taking rapid technological advancement into account, as well as the probability of the technological singularity occurring by 2060, this article suggests that some form of legal rights for robots is likely to become a reality. Utilising causal layered analysis (CLA) and scenario incasting, three future scenarios are suggested. In the zero-sum scenario the possibility of humanoid robots threatening force to gain voting rights is explored. A plausible future is envisaged in the animal status scenario where the conduct of robots is in effect governed by the same rules that apply to animals. A preferable future is entertained in a scenario that focusses on human evolution resulting in equal rights rather than human rights. Here robots have a degree of legal personhood in an inclusive world. By working with humans, robots achieve their full potential to the benefit of all.
Details
- Title
- Legal Rights for Robots by 2060?
- Authors
- Leon B Rademeyer (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - Faculty of Arts, Business and Law
- Publication details
- Knowledge Futures: Interdisciplinary Journal of Futures Studies, Vol.1(1)
- Publisher
- Centre for Knowledge Futures
- Date published
- 2017
- ISSN
- 2415-2374; 2415-2374
- Copyright note
- Copyright © 2017. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. View a copy of this license: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/
- Organisation Unit
- School of Social Sciences - Legacy; University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99451189902621
- Output Type
- Journal article
- Research Statement
- false
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