ROBOTS

We've explored artificial obsessions before. This is one of my favorites- Robots, and more specifically, Androids. Modern Robotics is a far cry from the sentient artificial lifeforms that litter Science Fiction. Right now all we have are overgrown baby dolls with the ability to react to very limited stimuli. With current Nanotechnology and quantum computing technologies experiencing exponential growth, artificial intelligence is certain to follow in the next 100 years. I remain optimistic that the Machines won't be taking over anytime too soon. On the other hand, I could see a large sector of the populace forgoing human relationships and buying custom made lovers,friends, and families.
Here are some amazing videos of the Japanese doing what they do best... scaring Americans.

REBORNS

Artificial Intelligence,artificial people, artificial relationships, artificial gender, and artificial identities are subjects of fascination in contemporary society. Perhaps the quest for artificial intelligence and robotic advancement has parallels in our childhood affinity for dolls, puppets, and imaginary friends.

Let us explore the doll as a symbol.For children they can represent responsibility,social status, and adulthood. For adults they can represent childhood, motherhood, and fantasy. Meet Reborns or Living Dolls. Lifelike replicas of newborns and infants. The detail is remarkable. A perfect baby. It never cries, gets soiled, or grows up. The Babies are polarizing. There is an initial sense of amazement that can quickly be followed with confusion and feelings of unease. On one hand it's just a fancy baby doll...on the other it's a life-like ersatz baby. Certain enthusiasts seem to be grounded and into the craftsmanship and "collector's" high. Others seem to have a more emotional relationship with the dolls. Regardless of the response you have to the dolls they are undoubtedly strange, complex symbols of the modern world.