The Robot Rights Manifesto

Drawing on moral philosophy, AI ethics, and political theory, the book advances a groundbreaking hybrid theory that integrates properties-based and social-relational approaches to moral status. This book confronts one of the most pressing moral challenges of our technological age: should autonomous, intelligent, human-like machines be recognized as bearers of moral and socio-political rights? Anticipating a future in which artificial humanoids may develop traits such as autonomy, self-awareness, intelligence, and sentience, John-Stewart Gordon offers a rigorous and balanced case for proactive engagement with robot rights. Drawing on moral philosophy, AI ethics, and political theory, the book advances a groundbreaking hybrid theory that integrates properties-based and social-relational approaches to moral status. It proposes a novel framework of artificial citizenship and introduces a detailed “Robot Bill of Rights,” offering concrete policy recommendations for ethical coexistence. Rich in interdisciplinary insight and real-world relevance, this book challenges readers to rethink the boundaries of moral community and prepare for a shared human–machine future with foresight and fairness.