3 Laws of Robotics

The 3 laws of robotics were developed by Isaac Asimov in his robotics stories. They are a good starting point for etical discussions centred on robots in society.
​Briefly introduce the 3 laws, just sharing what they are (or asking students to state them, then before starting this discussion get students to vote on whether they think these would be good laws to have. Repeat the vote after class discussion and investigation 
This is a discussion topic that can work with learners from about year 5 up to adult . Ask learners whether they think these would work. One area of focus could be defining the terms "human" and "harm". 
This topic could be integrated with work on the robotics stories (and associated films) of Isaac Asimov e.g. 'Bicentennial Man'. 
The 3 laws are:

1. A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.
2. A robot must obey orders given it by human beings except where such orders would conflict with the First Law.
3. A robot must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Law.

​This video may not be suitable for some learners, especially younger ones, it should be watched by the teacher to decide if it is suitable.