On the Rights and Rites of Robots and Artilects

Abstract

From the very earliest times, humans have often given names to and found special meanings to natural objects such as trees, rocks, water, mountains, and to objects in the sky such the sun, moon and stars, or groups of stars. At the same time, we have created objects out of stone, wood, mud and metals, and given names and special meaning to them as well. Various religions have holy objects that are believed to have special powers and that need to be treated in special, reverential ways. Many humans develop a close interrelation with certain animals such as dogs, cats, and horses. We often love our dog more than our children, or our horse more than our wife. Even in modern times, many of us give our automobiles, motorbikes, or bicycles affectionate names. We talk to them, pat them, show them that we care and appreciate them.