New laws of robotics

People and cars

Isaac Asimov's Cult Theses - Human Supplemented, Robot Edited

80 years ago, science fiction writer Isaac Asimov, author of the collection of stories "I, Robot", turned the perception of artificial intelligence (AI) in society.

A robot cannot harm a person or, by its inaction, allow a person to be harmed.

The robot must obey all orders that yes e t human, unless these orders are contrary to the First Law.

A robot must take care of its safety to the extent that it does not contradict the First or Second Laws.

Before the laws of robotics appeared, the prospect of the future in the minds of people looked threatening. Today, understanding the role of robots again requires updating. This is especially true for modern companies that want consumers to trust their machines.

Asimov's robots were versatile, they could work in a factory and play with children. The characters in the book "I, Robot" solved scientific problems, they conducted experiments, looked for resources and collected data for new research. It is curious that much of what has been described remains relevant or takes on new meaning.

Modern technologies are almost always used for specific tasks. If the algorithm evaluates purchases and finds the best suppliers, then it is usually not configured to issue loans. However, versatility is not ruled out - thanks to the development of transfer learning neural architecture search, new machines are able to acquire additional skills in related areas.

In the course of evolution, many robots have lost their iron body and turned into computer programs. These systems are called Robotic process automation (RPA). They automate routine tasks in full compliance with Asimov's second law. Process analytics solves more complex problems: the technologies themselves study the construction of business processes, determine which tasks the robots will cope with, and allow them to be taught effectively. Process Mining is used by progressive companies such as Siemens.

How does Asimov fit into this new picture of the world - with the emotional Pepper robot or an invisible computer program - with his humanism, the principle of "do no harm" and the belief that robots should help humanity?

For decades, companies have worked with artificial intelligence just like any other tool. We invested to cut costs: replace people and become more efficient. But it turned out that this attitude towards AI entails losses. Employees and customers began to fear and oppose robots. Public opinion decided everything.

That is why three laws came into the field that are related to human health and hazardous work: Today, technologies successfully automate medical processes and work in radiation zones, and then more - relations with robots have been revised in various areas of business.

Today, modern companies understand that only those who create effective teams of humans and robots will be able to successfully apply AI. According to analysts of the Silogic Group, the forecasts are as follows: 70% of the routine will be done by cars, 30% by people. In working with data, responsibilities will be divided 50 to 50%. In non-standard tasks requiring creative thinking, 80% of the work will remain for a person.

In such a close connection with technology, new rules of the game are indispensable. It seems that the time has come to add new ones to Asimov's three ingenious laws - this time for people.

Silogic Group LLC

© 2006-2022 Silogic Group