Making Robots More Humane at Brown University

As an example of this theory applied, Littman outlines a startup project for robots to help recovering alcoholics refrain from another drink. The robot would essentially perform the role of a counselor. Though inherently less dynamic than a professional human counselor, the robot could engage the subject in similar ways, like by asking poignant questions such as "How long have you been sober for?" The hope is that these questions would grant the subject another perspective and encourage him to reflect on his actions. Littman says, "By having the robot play the role of counselor or therapist, we will to make the insights and capabilities of highly-trained counselors more available to a wider set of people."