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The Dissenter

#1041 Anna Puzio: Social Robots, Religious Robots, Transhumanism, and Digital Afterlives

Jan 3, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Anna Puzio, a researcher at the University of Twente specializing in ethics and technology, explores the fascinating world of social robots and the ethical dilemmas of anthropomorphism. She dives into how digital identities affect our understanding of humanity, the roles of robots in religious contexts, and the complexities of transhumanism. Puzio also tackles the controversial subject of digital afterlives, examining the psychological impacts of creating chatbots that mimic deceased loved ones. It's a thought-provoking conversation that blends technology with deep ethical questions.
45:04

Episode guests

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Quick takeaways

  • The anthropomorphism of social robots poses ethical dilemmas regarding their moral status and our obligations toward them.
  • Technological advancements redefine personal identity and the essence of humanity, challenging our perception of the human-machine relationship.

Deep dives

Understanding Social Robots

Social robots are specifically designed for social interactions and exhibit a range of social behaviors regardless of their human-like appearance. These robots can be humanoid, resembling humans, or take on forms like animals or toys. People often anthropomorphize social robots, attributing human characteristics and emotions to them, which stems from a deep psychological inclination in humans. The distinction and design of these robots raise questions about the nature of our interactions with them and the expectations we impose based on their appearance.

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