"I care about him as a pal": conceptions of robotic pets in online AIBO discussion forums

In this study, we analyzed people's conceptions of AIBO, a robotic pet, through thier spontaneous postings in online AIBO discussion forums. Results showed that AIBO psychologically engaged this group of participants, particularly by drawing forth conceptions of essences (79%), agency (60%), and social standing (59%). However, participants seldom attributed moral standing to AIBO (e.g., that AIBO deserves respect, has rights, or can be held morally accountable for action). Our discussion focuses on the societal implications of these results.