Lex Fridman Podcast #412 – Marc Raibert: Boston Dynamics and the Future of Robotics
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Feb 16, 2024 
Marc Raibert, the founder of Boston Dynamics and now Executive Director of the Boston Dynamics AI Institute, shares his journey in legged robotics. He discusses the evolution of dynamic robotic systems and the transition from simulation to real-world applications. Raibert emphasizes the creative synergy between engineering and artistry, particularly in making robots agile and human-like. He also reflects on the societal impacts of robotics, including emotional responses and ethical considerations, providing a fascinating look into the future of intelligent machines.
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Early Influences
- Marc Raibert's father, a frustrated engineer, fostered a building environment.
- This influenced Raibert's early interest in robotics, sparked by a disassembled robot arm in 1974.
Two Approaches to Intelligence
- Brain and Cognitive Science (BCS) and robotics offer distinct approaches to understanding intelligence.
- BCS focuses on biological systems, while robotics emphasizes building and testing artificial ones.
Inspiration for Dynamic Robots
- Marc Raibert was inspired to create dynamic robots after seeing a slow, stable six-legged robot.
- He decided to explore the opposite approach, leading to hopping and running robots.