Films about AI and intelligent robots appeal strongly to our imagination. Think of Wall-E, Blade Runner 2049, Chappie, Interstellar or A.I. If we look closely at those stories, what can we discover about our connection with them?
On the one hand, robots are portrayed as noble and innocent beings, choosing solitude or sacrifice over personal (human) emotions like jealousy, possessiveness, and desire. On the other, we use robots as sex toys, companions, or slaves. What do these narratives tell us about ourselves? Our shortcomings, fears and struggles with being human?
Join us for an exploration through film clips and two thought-provoking mini-lectures. Join the discussion on our relationship with AI and robots at this event in the TU Delft Library. Together, we’ll peel back the layers of humanity’s relationship with AI and consider what it reveals about our deepest longings—and our darkest impulses.
And since we’re all still human, we end this session with pizza en drinks. Click here to sign up!
With:
Maaike van der Horst is specialized in research on data-driven sex robots and how they can provide insight into human sexuality and intimacy. Additionally, she also explores how human sexuality might change under the influence of sex robots.
Leon Heuts is philosopher and head of Studium Generale TU Delft.
Explore SG’s related events this quarter on the theme: Loneliness
Is loneliness a totally normal, private feeling? Is it an epidemic caused by technology? Is it a silent killer or a beautiful part of being human? The Studium Generale theme for this quarter is Loneliness. Through a series of events focusing on loneliness, we can look at this fascinating phenomenon through different lenses. From writing workshops to philosophical examinations, we invite you to connect with others and talk through what loneliness means to you.
Existential Tuesday: Is monogamy dead? | Nov 12th | @ The Nook
Writing Huddle | Loneliness | Nov 14th | @ The Nook
Existential Tuesday: Are you alone in the void? | Nov 19th | @ Faculty of Applied Sciences
Critical Mass | Samenleven | Dec 9th | @ Theater de Veste
Loneliness, sex, and robots | Dec 10th | @ Library
Writing Huddle | Self-portrait on the Fly | Dec 12th | @ The Nook
