Robotics + Art



Robotics + Art

(https://techcrunch.com/2016/05/13/robots-wont-just-take-jobs-theyll-create-them/)


     William Benjamin mentions that often times conventional art is enjoyed while new art is subjected to harsh criticism. I agree with this statement because I find that the public has been very harsh towards the advancements in robotics. There are many comments of how robots will take over all of the jobs, leaving people with no means to make money. Other critics claim that if robot technology continues to advance, robots may someday be able to have their own individual thought.


     People fear robots could out-smart and over-power humans, and gain control over our lives. Many movies play on this public’s common fear such as in “I, Robot.” In this movie, robots whose purpose is to serve humans ultimately revolt and take over the government, police and people. These largely held public fears are obstacles that can potentially hinder the advancement of robotics in the future.














      Some movies on the other hand are working on creating a positive image for robot technology. During her lecture, Machiko Kusahara mentions that some robots are being designed to rescue people or to take care of the elderly. This reminded me of the movie “Big Hero 6” which is about a robot which can provide personal aid to sick or injured people. Machiko Kusahara also discusses how robots that service people must be made smaller or have a friendlier appearance so they don’t frighten people. This is a point that was also made in the movie because the robot, Baymax, was programmed to have a kind, caring personality and have a “huggable” design. By showing a robot that can be compassionate, the public may begin to give more support and trust in robotics. I personally remember that after seeing this movie I was much more interested in learning about the field of robotics. 


References

Benjamin, Walter. The Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction. London: Penguin, 2008. Print.

"Big Hero 6 (film)." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 23 Apr. 2017. Web. 23 Apr. 2017.

"I, Robot (film)." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 14 Apr. 2017. Web. 23 Apr. 2017.

Kusahara, Machiko. “Japanese Robotics.” Robotics + Art. 23 Apr. 2017. Lecture.

Vesna,Victoria. “Lecture Part 1-3.” Robotics + Art. 23 Apr. 2017. Lecture.




Comments

  1. asambrailoApril 25, 2017 at 7:01 PM


    I like how you addressed both sides of the robotics topic, discussing what people fear while commenting upon the benefits robots can bring. I think by having more movies like Big Hero 6 the current preconceived notions people possess about robots can be transformed into more positive connotations. Your post reminds me of the television show Westworld, which has evoked a lot of interest in the robotic space amongst viewers. Do you think this type of show more so highlights the benefits or potential downside of robots?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. UnknownApril 26, 2017 at 9:42 PM

      To be honest, I've only seen a couple episodes of Westworld but my impression is that the show plays more on the downside of robots. You get to see what happens when robots malfunction which kind of shows how people don't really have full control over them. Also, its interesting to see how people treat the robots. It makes me question whether interacting with robots on a daily basis would make us worse people. Not having to worry about how actions affect others can be a harmful habit to make. Yes, its really cool that they can create a whole world where robots can basically blend into society. But it gives me an impression that it wouldn't be a society for the better.

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