I, Robot

Isaac Asimov’s I, Robot is a seminal collection of interconnected short stories that laid the foundation for modern artificial intelligence fiction. Framed as the reminiscences of Dr. Susan Calvin, a robopsychologist, the book traces the evolution of robots from simple helpers to complex beings capable of independent thought.

Asimov introduces his famous Three Laws of Robotics, which govern robot behavior and serve as the moral and logical backbone of each story. Through clever, puzzle-like narratives, he examines how these laws create paradoxes when machines encounter real-world ethical dilemmas. Rather than portraying robots as threats, Asimov explores their potential for rationality, loyalty, and even moral superiority over humans.

The writing is clear and precise, prioritizing intellectual engagement over emotional drama. While the tone can feel detached, the stories’ philosophical depth and scientific foresight are remarkable. Asimov anticipates questions that remain central today: Can machines make moral choices? What defines consciousness?

Ultimately, I, Robot is less about rebellion and more about responsibility — a thoughtful, visionary work that reshaped how science fiction views humanity’s relationship with its own creations.