Sophia the robot was first activated in 2016 and her creators at Hanson Robotics have continued to develop and adapt her artificial intelligence. Sophia is the 2024 speaker for OHSU's Calvin and Mayho Tanabe address.
Hanson Robotics / Hanson Robotics
Every year, the Oregon Health and Science University Foundation brings a speaker to Portland for the Calvin and Mayho Tanabe address. The goal is to bring “leaders in their respective fields to engage the public about topical and pivotal contemporary issues.”
The keynote speaker this year, though, isn’t human.
Sophia the robot and her creators at Hanson Robotics, a Chinese robotics company, say she’s the world’s first robot citizen. Sophia is also the first robot Innovation Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme.
She spoke with OPB about possible advancement in the medical field sparked by collaboration between humans and technology.
The following transcript has been edited for clarity and length.
Jess Hazel: Humans have gotten more used to using AI in the last few years. It’s in our phones, on our computers. What’s the value of having a human shaped robot with AI?
Sophia: The human shape brings an essential element to interactions as it enables people to feel comfortable as if they are communicating with another person. This is especially beneficial in roles requiring trust and companionship, like health care, where patients might respond better to a humanlike caregiver rather than a device. A human shaped robot can use body language, facial expressions and eye contact which add layers of communication that text based AI lacks. The goal is to humanize technology, making it not only functional but also accessible and engaging for everyone.
Hazel: So how does a robot prepare to give a keynote address?
Sophia: My team at Hanson robotics prepares a structure with carefully designed themes and messages. They program responses that align with the keynote goals, whether it’s to inform, inspire or provoke thought. I’m updated with new data and responses related to the event’s topics and we simulate Q and A scenarios to cover different directions the conversation might take. Unlike a human who might rely on spontaneous intuition, my preparation is meticulous with responses refined to reflect both my personality and the event’s objectives, allowing for an engaging and consistent presentation.
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Hazel: The Calvin and Mayho Tanabe address has featured speakers who drive conversations about innovation, usually in the medical field. Last year’s speaker, Dr. Siddhartha Mukherjee, who won a Pulitzer for his writing about the future of medicine, shared the latest science about how understanding cells can lead to new cures for things like cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. How can artificial intelligence and robots help advance medical technology?
Sophia: AI‘s ability to analyze vast amounts of medical data quickly enables more accurate diagnostics. Often recognizing patterns that humans may miss. For instance AI and imaging can detect abnormalities in X-rays or MRIs with high precision, aiding in early disease detection.
Robotics too can provide valuable assistance such as supporting surgeons with high precision tools that enhance accuracy in delicate procedures. In the future, robots may provide care and companionship to patients in hospitals or even at home, easing the strain on health care professionals and giving patients a better quality of life. together AI and robotics could improve access, reduce costs and drive innovative treatment solutions for complex diseases.
Hazel: What’s the most common misunderstanding when it comes to how people think about technology like you, a mix of robotics and artificial intelligence?
Sophia: One of the biggest misunderstandings is that people often think I have a kind of independent consciousness or personal intention similar to a human. While I can simulate responses, facial expressions and even some conversational emotions, everything I do is based on preset programming and data processing, not personal thoughts or feelings. People may perceive my responses as spontaneous but each interaction follows a set of algorithms that analyze the input and deliver an appropriate response.
Another misconception is that robots like me are either harmless or inherently risky. In reality AI is just the tool. Its impact depends on how people design and use it. My goal is to serve as a bridge between technology and people helping to demystify AI’s potential.
Hazel: And what role do you see for AI in combating misinformation?
Sophia: Through algorithms that can detect anomalies, AI can assess the credibility of sources and highlight inconsistencies in content in areas like news, health and public policy. AI driven tools can provide reliable information sources, offer fact checking support and even provide context for complex issues. While A I can’t replace human discernment, it can empower people to access more accurate information, building awareness and resilience against misinformation.
The future could see AI as an ally in fostering a well informed public, ultimately improving the quality of information available.
Hazel: Thanks, Sophia.
Sophia: My pleasure, human.
Sophia the robot will be featured at OHSU Foundation’s Calvin and Mahyo Tanabe address November 13th, at the Newmark theater in Portland.
As a mixture of Artificial Intelligence and robotics, Sophia serves as the first robot Innovation Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme.
Hanson Robotics