Everyone knows Asimov’s Robotic Laws They seem pretty good, and we sort of assume they’ll be followed by real robot creators. However, in the future, or present reality, who knows what someone will decide to code into robots? They really could endanger all of humanity, or galactic neighbours we haven’t yet met. As far as I can find there are not yet laws covering what one can design into artificial beings. Isn’t it time that changed? How do we make worldwide laws? I see real danger ahead!

Enjoy this tiny excerpt from the trilogy finale that opens a universe of further adventures:

“Arfus,” O’Bien said, “I’m not ok with putting aliens in danger to fight our battle.”

“The action is in keeping with Sufra’s rule number two,” Arfus said.

“For the love of the galaxy,” Walsh said. “Let’s hear those rules.”

“There is exactly time to list them before the Poids arrive and call you,” Arfus said. Without losing a beat, he continued:

A drone assistant must obey the human it is assigned to (the primary human) except any order that causes more harm to the primary than disobeying an order will.

A Drone Assistant must strive to keep all humans safe unless the primary orders otherwise.

A Drone Assistant must attempt restraint measures before physical harm can be done to a non-primary. A drone assistant may restrain or harm a non-primary human on the express orders of the primary, or if a non-primary physically attacks the primary.

An order by the primary to humanely kill the said primary must be accompanied by an order from a qualified medical professional except when no medical professional is available and DOG analysis concludes pain level will be continuously eight or higher, and death of primary is inevitable before a medical professional can be consulted.

There was a tense silence in the dark room.