Ghost in the Shell

 Britannica defines Cartesianism as, “a species of rationalism, because Cartesians hold that knowledge—indeed, certain knowledge—can be derived through reason from innate ideas,” (Britannica 2022). Cartesians believe that God is omnipotent and that his will is entirely free, therefore meaning that people who align with the cartesian belief have to deal with uncertainty in science. Cartesianism is built off the beliefs of René Descartes, and focuses on the duality between mind and matter. Cartesians believe that an individual cannot think on their own without the innate knowing that one exists, coined in Descartes’s popular phrase, “I think, therefore I am.” Based on the beliefs of Descartes and the teachings of Cartesianism, part humans/part machines do not have to align with Asimov's 3 Laws of Robotics. Since Cartesianism places an emphasis on the separation between the body and the mind, part humans/part robots would not need to follow the 3 laws, since they possess an independent mind that is capable of drawing its own conclusions. 

On the other hand, there are some gaps in answers from Cartesians regarding technological advancements in a more modern day society. It could also be argued that part humans/part robots would need to follow the 3 laws, since a central argument in Descartes theory was the notion of “clear and distinct ideas,” (New World Encyclopedia, 2017). Since Descartes argues that these ideas give us a truthful view of reality, it can also be argued that the 3 laws are thus inherently followed, considering a realistic view of life would come with the agreement of adhering to universal societal norms, like not bringing another person harm.

Incorporating both ways of thinking in the Cartesian mindset regarding the question of if part humans/part robots need to follow the 3 laws, it is still the logical conclusion to deduce that Asimov’s rules do still apply.  In today's technologically advanced society, however, it is entirely unrealistic to assume that all creations and pieces of technology will properly work the way they were intended to. Holistically speaking, the perfect world would be one in which all created robots followed the Three Laws of Robotics. Nevertheless, it is important to note that if human beings are unable to follow the rules of a modern, civilized society, it is naive to think that their creations will. 

In regards to Asimov's 3 Laws of Robotics, these laws were devised by Asimov and acted as a common theme throughout his works of science fiction. Isaac Asimov was a Russian born American writer and professor, producing works from 1939 to 1992. His works often had the plotline of robots acting in dangerous or contradictory ways and going against the three laws.   Asimov started reading science fiction stories at the age of 9, and went on to complete his education and earn a PhD in Chemistry from Columbia University in 1948. He first started teaching biochemistry, and became a successful writer in various genres including science fiction, non-fiction, and historical. 

An interesting aspect of Asimov’s laws of robotics is that it is directly applicable to science fiction themes we had previously discussed in class. Asimov accidentally coined the phrase 'robotics,’ thinking it was a natural analogue for the study of robots, while simultaneously not realizing he had come up with a completely original word for the study of robots in computer science and engineering. In class, we had debates earlier on in the semester about Star Trek and how it inspired the technology of today’s world. The cross between Star Trek and Asimov comes in “Stark Trek: The Next Generation.” The show premiered its first season episode in 1988, with the plot being centered around androids with ‘positronic brains.’

 Positronic brains was an idea conceived by Asimov, where the brains acted as a central processing unit for robots. This gave robots the ability to feel consciousness, and the brain can only be successfully created with the incorporation of Asimov’s three laws. In Stark Trek’s episode, androids are found with positronic brains, and they are simultaneously referred to as “Asimov’s dream.” This overlapping between different science fiction topics we have reviewed in class demonstrates the overarching theme of technology and scientific advances in today's society. It also signifies the longevity and lasting powers of science fiction works, showing that an interest in robotics, androids, and enhanced technology has spanned over decades and created enduring discussions.

In conclusion, there is a right answer for if part humans/part machines have to align with Asimov's 3 Laws of Robotics. The optimistic answer would be yes, all robots created by robots should be implanted with the 3 laws that are impossible to bypass. However, both advancements in technology and the expectation placed on the actions and abilities of robots have greatly surpassed previous expectations. We had discussed in class that scientists had been doubtful we’d even have sliding, automatic doors in the future, but those are a small step in the direction society has been going towards in advance technology. While there is not one fully correct answer as to whether part humans/part robots follow the 3 laws, it can at least be guaranteed that humans try everything in their power to seek a more harmonious and peaceful future, where technology is only intended to help people.