The idea was truly shocking.
Although scientists had long been working to develop Intelligent Robots as smart and adaptable as humans, that was still only a goal they were striving toward.
Once they actually brought them to market, however, they would have to consider the social impact.
The biggest problem was that Intelligent Robots would replace humans in all sorts of jobs, winning employers' overwhelming favor by working tirelessly and never complaining.
Under those circumstances, who the hell would still hire flesh-and-blood people?
Unemployment would explode, eventually becoming an uncontrollable social problem.
Shen Bing seemed not to have considered any of this. "I do intend to bring robots to market. Technological progress is about freeing up and developing productive capacity, after all. Robots have advantages in that respect that no other technology can match."
Charles could not help smiling wryly. People certainly would be freed up, but so thoroughly that they would be out of work altogether.
If humanity could truly achieve material abundance and distribute resources according to need, that would not be much of a problem. The trouble was that plenty of people were still struggling to keep themselves fed and clothed.
Of course Shen Bing understood what Charles was thinking. He smiled and said, "I know what you're worried about. That's exactly why I want to make virtual reality technology available to everyone. I've put together a virtual reality Game with a realism level of ninety-nine percent. To ensure the best possible gaming experience, everyone will play on the same server, so supporting everyone online simultaneously is an essential feature. That's also the main reason I came to see you today."
Rather than address Shen Bing's point directly, Charles said, "Boss, are you planning to use this Game to keep those unemployed people occupied?"
Shen Bing nodded,