Reason
Due: 8:10am, Monday, November 2. Value: 60 pts.
Read the short story Reason
from I, Robot. Then
write an essay answering the questions below. The essay should be
approximately 3–4 double-spaced pages, though it may be shorter
or longer as long as you answer the questions fully. The essay should
fluently integrate answers to the questions into one coherent whole
response, and it should be able to stand on its own without reference
to the assignment. Please include page numbers for any citations of
the source story.
Is the robot QT-1 functioning properly in the events recounted
in Reason
? One human character argues that QT-1 is working
properly; the other character disagrees. Briefly recount the
arguments made by each character. Then state which character you
believe to be correct, and argue why that character's belief is
right and why the other character is wrong. Be sure to back up
any claims you make with evidence.
In analyzing whether QT-1 was functioning properly, you will need to have articulated a definition of what it means for a robot to properly function. How does that definition apply in terms of the programs you have been writing in this course? Give at least two specific examples of how that definition applies to robot programs you have completed so far.