The recent rash of vandalism targeting Waymos (driverless robotaxis) raises questions about why these cars inspire hostility.

TPL Co-Director Ryan Calo explores this topic and public anxiety over artificial intelligence in a KQED radio story. He posits that since Waymos are robots that lack any characteristics of humans, they are easier for humans to target in violent ways.

“Waymo cars … do not look like people, right? They’re more thrilling to vandalize than a mailbox. I just don’t see it happening with something that felt more like a person. ”

He also brings forward conversations about the history of AI, driverless cars and the potential for “robot rights.”

Read the full article here: https://www.kqed.org/news/12030860/waymo-problems