Letter: Biobot terror

From Christian Blyth

So a group of scientists has been able to make simple node connections that
reproduce the complicated neuron reactions of creatures such as laboratory rats,
grasshoppers and ants
(“March of the biobots”, 5 December, p 26).

Although this new technology looks interesting, it may have some unwanted
repercussions. When these little computers become more and more sophisticated,
they will become more and more sentient. The computers will reach a point where
they behave like their real counterparts.

Activist groups may challenge this research, saying that the researchers are
being inhumane to this new sentient breed. Although this field is still in its
infancy, the researchers should prepare for this eventuality.

There is another problem, perhaps even more menacing. What would happen if
these mechanical crickets escaped? It’s bad enough to have to put up with real
crickets chirping away at night. I don’t know if I could handle mechanically
enhanced ones.

Kanata, Ontario