Summary
The word "robot" first appeared in the 1920 play R.U.R. by Czech writer Karel Čapek. The play, which highlighted concerns about modernity and automated labor, used robots as a metaphor for human workers and their potential uprising against exploitative systems.
Key Facts
- The word "robot" originated from Karel Čapek's 1920 play R.U.R.
- In the play, robots were humanoid workers made from synthetic flesh and blood.
- The play was a critique of socio-political issues of its time, including industrialization.
- The setting was influenced by events like the Russian Revolution and World War I.
- Čapek used the Czech word "robotnik," meaning "worker," which comes from "robota," meaning "forced labor."
- Robots in the play gained self-awareness and revolted against humans.
- The play drew parallels to industrial practices like those pioneered by Henry Ford.
