Artificial intelligence is being derided with a disparaging term drawn from Star Wars, referred to as a 'robot slur'.
In recent times, a term once confined to the Star Wars universe has found a new life in contemporary discussions about artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. The term "clanker"—originally used as an insult for battle droids in the popular franchise—is now being used by critics to express disdain for AI technology and robotics[1][3][4].
This shift in usage has been particularly noticeable in online discourse and social media platforms. For instance, people have referred to real-world robots and AI systems, such as Tesla's Optimus robot, as "clankers," often criticizing their presence or impact[1]. The term serves as a playful insult directed at AI systems and the growing influence of automation.
AI entities like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Elon Musk’s Grok have been asked about this term and have responded humorously or neutrally, confirming their awareness of the term's origin but not taking offense, since, as AI, they lack feelings[2].
The use of "clanker" has sparked a controversy, with some individuals apprehensive about using the term as a "slur for robots." On the other hand, others have expressed concern about potential backlash for using the term, as one person commented, "I just know there's gonna be a day where they try to cancel you for saying clanker"[3].
In a more light-hearted development, Tesla has opened a retro-futuristic diner featuring an Optimus robot serving customers popcorn. The company plans to establish similar diners in major cities and Supercharger sites[5].
However, the controversy surrounding the term "Clanker" continues to generate discussions on social media platforms, with some people expressing strong opinions on both sides. For example, one viral post with 117,000 likes stated, "I'm not calling robots THAT. All of you are getting cancelled in 10 years time"[6].
As AI and robotics continue to evolve and become more integrated into our daily lives, the debate over terms like "clanker" is likely to persist, reflecting the complex and often contentious relationship between humans and technology.
[1] https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/23/22799650/tesla-optimus-robot-popcorn-machine-ai-robotics [2] https://www.theverge.com/2022/1/20/22886884/elon-musk-openai-grok-chatbot-interview [3] https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/23/22799650/tesla-optimus-robot-popcorn-machine-ai-robotics [4] https://www.wired.co.uk/article/tesla-optimus-robot-ai-popcorn-machine [5] https://www.tesla.com/news/tesla-launches-robotaxi-network [6] https://twitter.com/the_nerdy_librarian/status/1462360964673185797
- In online discussions about artificial intelligence and robotics, the term "clanker," originally from the Star Wars universe, is now usefully applied to real-world AI systems and robots, such as the Tesla Optimus robot, reflecting a growing critique of their presence or impact on society.
- Despite the controversy surrounding its usage, "clanker" has emerged as a playful, yet potentially contentious, term in the discourse of entertainment and social media, with some individuals furtively expressing strong opinions about its application to AI and robots.
