Conceptualizing Trust in Objects of Speculation: A Narrative Approach to Robot Governance

Abstract

This paper develops an approach towards the study of trust in emerging robotics in a context of technology governance. First, a notion of robotics’ speculative character as an emerging technology is developed, thereby pointing at the different expectations regarding its societal impact. Furthermore, robots as speculative objects are explained as important to engage with, thereby arguing for a narrative approach towards robot trajectories. Finally, based on the above, a concept for the analysis of trust building through technology governance is developed. A concept that can engage with the speculative character of emerging robotics on a societal level.