In an era where the boundaries between humans and machines are becoming increasingly blurred, a glimpse into what was presented at the World Robot Conference (WRC) in Beijing sheds new light on the direction our world is heading. The WRC, held since 2015, has become a venue for showcasing the latest achievements in the field of robotics.
Humanoid robots, which garnered the most attention this year, drew inspiration from the poets of the Tang dynasty: Li Bai and Du Fu. Their realistic representation and advanced functionalities were the result of years of research in the field of robotics.
In total, nearly 600 robots from 160 companies worldwide were exhibited during the conference. Among them, 60 made their global debut, showcasing new possibilities in robotics.
It is worth reflecting on how rapidly robotics is becoming a part of everyday life. Data from the International Federation of Robotics indicates that in 2022, the global number of industrial robots reached a record level of 531,000 units.
However, progress also raises concerns. What place will there be for humans in a world that is becoming increasingly automated year by year? Professor Jonathan Sparks from the University of Oxford emphasizes the necessity of striking a balance between the use of robots and the protection of jobs.
History teaches us that new technologies can impact the job market. Recollections from the times of the industrial revolution, when factory automation deprived many of their livelihoods, serve as a warning to contemporary decision-makers.
In conclusion, this year's WRC demonstrated that progress in robotics is inevitable. Nevertheless, there is a need for thoughtful reflection on the role designated for humans in this world. The challenge is to ensure that technology serves humanity rather than replacing it.
To utilize technology to the best possible extent our civilization will have to undergo significant changes on numerous levels, in the end, We the People will truly navigate the outcomes whether they will be positive or negative our own actions and interests will determine the reality of our species.
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