About
What are sex robots and why are their ethics important?
Fully functioning sex robots may not be a reality now, but they are on their way. A sex robot is a more advanced version of the popular sex doll; a silicone body which depicts a human is combined with artificial intelligence, animatronics and a voice.
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The most advanced sex dolls currently in production - such as 'Harmony' designed by Realbotix - are intended to be an emotional companion, sexual partner, hyper realistic and fully customisable. You can customise physical attributes as well as personality traits.
The artificial intelligence used within the robots is designed to hold long-term conversations with users and to engage with the users preferences and interests.
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Over recent months there have been numerous developments to do with sex robots. Sex robot brothels have been set up and are in proposals to be set up in cities such as Paris and Turin, charging customers up to £100 for 30 minutes. A sex robot café has opened up in Switzerland. Pre-orders have been made for sex robots costing in excess of £10,000 and it has been predicted by leading UK Futurologist, Dr Ian Pearson, that human and robot sex will take over sex between humans by the year 2050.
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Sex robots have been cited by some as completely justifiable; they can be used to help provide sex for disabled people or connect with people on deeper emotional levels. But for others, the idea is deplorable because sex robots are seen to objectify women, alienate individuals and encourage negative sexual behaviours in society.
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In our fast paced technological world it needs to be decided whether sex robots are a welcome part of the commercial sex industry, or whether they affect our society in a negative way - 'The Ethics of Sex Robots in a Digital World' seeks to explore this.
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Target Station
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This project is intended for the Digital Humans programme which is part of the Radio 4 weekly schedule.
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I have chosen this station because Radio 4 produces programmes with rigorous journalism which serve a mature audience. The topics discussed in this documentary would therefore suit this station.
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