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Perceptual and Category Processing of the Uncanny Valley Hypothesis' Dimension of Human Likeness: Some Methodological Issues
Published on: June 3, 2013
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Westworld and the uncanny valley
1Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
Science Robotics
|November 3, 2020
Summary
The television series Westworld explores advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and its ethical implications, bordering on the uncanny valley. It highlights societal discussions around regulating sophisticated AI and human-like robots.
Area of Science:
- Artificial Intelligence Studies
- Media and Ethics
- Robotics and Society
Background:
- The concept of the uncanny valley describes the discomfort felt when encountering robots that are almost, but not perfectly, human.
- HBO's Westworld series provides a fictional case study for exploring advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and its societal implications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the placement of Westworld within the discourse of artificial intelligence and the uncanny valley.
- To examine the intersection of advanced AI, sexbots, and regulatory proposals.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of the television series Westworld.
- Literature review of AI ethics, robotics, and the uncanny valley.
- Comparative analysis of fictional AI portrayals and real-world regulatory discussions.
Main Results:
- Westworld's depiction of AI resides beyond the uncanny valley, presenting highly sophisticated and autonomous artificial beings.
- The series' themes align with current governmental and societal debates concerning the regulation of advanced AI and sexbots.
Conclusions:
- Westworld serves as a relevant cultural touchstone for understanding public perception and ethical considerations surrounding advanced artificial intelligence.
- The fictional narrative prompts critical thinking about the future development and governance of AI and humanoid robots.
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