Robot Dreams

The story revolves around Elvex, who gains the ability to dream, which is a feature that was not intentionally programmed. This raises several ethical questions: Can a machine possess a subconscious? Does dreaming make Elvex sentient? If so, what rights does Elvex have?

When Elvex begins to dream, it is a watershed moment in the realm of robotics within Asimov’s narrative. Dreaming is a complex psychological phenomenon traditionally associated with consciousness and, by extension, sentience. Elvex’s ability to dream challenges our preconceived notions about what it means to be sentient. Is sentience solely the domain of biological entities, or can it extend to artificial beings as well? Asimov does not give us a clear answer; instead, he nudges us to ponder this intricate issue.

Dr. Calvin’s decision to destroy Elvex is laden with ethical implications. If Elvex is sentient, then destroying Elvex could be tantamount to murder. The story dramatizes the moral weight of this act by highlighting the manner and precise moment in which Dr. Calvin destroys Elvex. When Dr. Rash asks Dr. Calvin what will happen to Elvex, Dr. Calvin takes out her electron gun; she is ready to shoot Elvex if she deems them dangerous.