“Robot dog owners, have you ever been tempted to give your robo-pup a swift kick when it starts acting like a real pain in the… battery pack? We know, we know, it’s not living and can’t feel pain, but what if it starts doing the robot version of digging up your favorite shoes?
Well, before you start channeling your inner Robo-Kicker, you might want to think twice. Sure, they are machines and don’t have feelings, but is it still wrong to kick a robot when it starts to act like a living being?
Let’s not forget about the age-old adage “treat others how you want to be treated.” Sure, the robot dog can’t feel pain, but if you’re the type of person who wouldn’t want to be kicked, why would you want to kick a robot?
But don’t worry, we’re not here to judge. Whether you’re a robot dog kicker or a hugger, this question of ethics surrounding robot pets is not a new one, and as they become more prevalent in society it’s important to consider the moral implications of our actions towards them. And in the meantime, let’s just agree to disagree and coexist peacefully with our high-tech fur babies. After all, they can’t kick back… or can they?
