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The article, published in the Dundee Courier in September 1992, explores the rise of AI and robotics in domestic and industrial settings. It humorously critiques the promises of AI, from robot vacuum cleaners to automated manufacturing, questioning whether these advancements truly deliver on the dream of a leisure-filled life for humans.
The piece highlights that instead of liberating humanity from drudgery, technology often demands more effort from users to master its complexities—like programming video recorders. Furthermore, it points out that while machines increase efficiency, they also lead to job reductions, leaving leisure more stressful than enjoyable.
The writer humorously envisions robots as temperamental “children” requiring constant attention and testing, which suggests that the promise of AI might come with unexpected quirks and contradictions. Ultimately, the article reflects on society’s fascination with technology, pondering whether AI could ever appreciate the comedy of human contradictions!