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Isaac Asimov I Robot

Decent Essays

Isaac Asimov presents a positive view of technology, namely robots, in I, Robot; however, it seems to be a reluctant view. Susan Calvin tells the narrator a series of stories that may seem like Asimov has a negative attitude towards robots because there is always some conflict with the robot. Furthermore, the magnitude of the troubles that arise grows throughout the book. When analyzed, however, these same stories show a positive view of robotic technology through the human and robot connections, the cause of conflict, and the robots’ ultimate and superior ability to do what needs to be done. Interactions between the robots and humans show how the characters feel towards robots and may influence how we feel about them. Gloria and her robot nursemaid, Robbie, have the most endearing and heartbreaking interaction. Gloria is devastated after being separated from him. She pleads to her mother, “‘I don’t want that nasty dog- I want Robbie’” (11). They share a bond that even Mr. Westin, Gloria’s father, appreciates and leads him to reunite Robbie and his daughter. Mr. Westin makes sure his wife understands that Robbie is good for her and they cannot send him away (22). Defeated, Mrs. …show more content…

Despite his belief in his own superiority, Cutie is able to keep the beam in focus. Donovan has his reservations about Cutie’s superiority complex; however, Powell reasons with Donovan, “‘He knows he can keep it more stable than we can, since he insists he’s the superior being...’” (65). Perhaps the best explanation of the robots’ and machines’ support to mankind comes from Madame Szegeczowska when she points out “‘…is it so terrible? No wars! We live in peace- and it is pleasant after seven thousand years of war’” (214). The machines have finally done what humans have not been able to do in all of our existence. They have created

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