Autonomous Robots: Transformative and Disruptive

Abstract

Primitive autonomous robotic vehicles were first developed during World War I and deployed during wars throughout the 20th century. More recently, autonomous vehicles with cognition were enabled by new technologies, especially in sensors, processors, and software, along with advances in humanoid and other legged robots. The autonomous car, a transformative and disruptive technology, will lead over the coming decades to the development of ubiquitous autonomous robots with increasing levels of cognition for many different applications. These robots will fill nearly every economic sector and occupational niche. The potential impact of autonomous intelligent robots on society, by the end of the century, will lead to ethical and moral dilemmas, as well as impacting jobs across the globe. There is a need to provide alternative sources of income, or alternative employment, for unemployed humans. There is also a need to consider the consequence of the possible emergence of robot self-awareness, consciousness, and free will.