As one of the most technologically advanced countries in the world, it is no wonder that Japan is looking into the widespread use of robots in its largest cities. Kazuo Mizuta explains the future of robots in daily life, including humanoids which will be fully equipped with feelings. Mizuta even predicts that in 2040, these humanoids will fully coexist with humans. With the development of robots that aid in the agricultural and manufacturing industries, these working bots can be found in the natural, human, and factory environment. Examples of robots in forestry, construction, fisheries, medicine, and rescue are already making improvements in Japan’s workforce and quality of life. Robots with more human-like characteristics will make a bigger appearance in the next 5-10 years, and are expected to create a $100 billion market. Robots aiding in elderly homes are also highly anticipated, as they will make up for the lack of workforce. The technology will allow patients in almost every aspect of their day, including rescuing the physically impaired in times of disaster. There are some considerations in using such advanced technology; in the case of the robot-body suit called HAL, there are possibilities of psychological effects and shift in brain functions. However, according to robotics scientists, the integration of robots into society is inevitable. Additionally, conversations about whether robots will compromise their lives before humans are already taking place. This can be related to Haraway’s Cyborgs piece, in a more literal sense. If the reliance on robots gets too extreme, it is possible that a cyborg society will exist. “…robots can be turned off any time, but if humans do turn off these switches, then, it is possible that their social ties will be cut off, too.”
Human and Robots Interaction: When Will Robots Come of Age? Kazuo Mizuta1