Biomimetics
Nature's Inspiration
Humanlike robots, also known as biomimetics robotics, are a huge ethical concern due to its purpose. It is argued whether or not these robots were programmed specifically to cause harm and take part in criminal activies or to actually be beneficial.
As humanlike robots are being more capable they are expected to become household appliances, or perhaps even human peers; they may replace unskilled human labor, or possibly perform difficult and complex tasks in hazardous conditions.
Most of the biomimetics robots are used in the military to replace or accompany human beings on the battle field. It allows the military to prevent death without sacrificing a mission. “As robots advance into our homes, workplaces, schools, hospitals, battlefields, and society at large, it would serve us to be well informed of the ethical and social issues and prepare for a more mechanized world” (Lin, Intro x). Regardless of individual opinions on this technology, they have been a fundamental part of both military and society.
Ethical Issues
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Biomimetics has greaty impacted our society and the quality of life by human innovations regarding nature. Simple technologies (such as fins to help swimmers swim efficiently, or airplanes to transport items) that we humans use are biomimetic technologies. Benefits from the study of biomimetics include stronger fiber, multifunctionalmaterials, improved drugs, superior robots, etc. Our society continues to stay progressive and advanced due to biomimetics. In order to continue to strive as a community, biomimetics has to continue to solve engineering problems based off the functions and mechanisms of the natural world.
Social Issues
Legal Issues
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Biomimetic technologies are regulated by the federal government because most of it, such as the Velcro, have already been patented. There are intellectual property questions that arise with this biotechnology, which is why it is important to have your creation patented.
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