I, Robot
by Isaac Asimov
I, Robot (1950) is a collection of nine interconnected short stories that introduce Asimov's Three Laws of Robotics. Through roboticist Susan Calvin's career, the stories explore the logical consequences and paradoxes of programming machines to serve, obey, and protect humans.
Published
1950
Pages
224
Pub. Order
#8
Chron. Order
#1
Synopsis
The book presents nine short stories framed as interviews with Dr. Susan Calvin, the chief robopsychologist at U.S. Robots and Mechanical Men, Inc. Each story explores different implications and paradoxes of the Three Laws of Robotics: 1) A robot may not harm a human; 2) A robot must obey human orders; 3) A robot must protect itself — each law superseded by those above it.
From a robot nursemaid (Robbie) to robots that can read minds (Liar!), go insane (Escape!), or run for political office (Evidence), the stories trace the evolution of robotics technology and its impact on humanity.
Key Themes
Key Characters
Susan Calvin
Chief robopsychologist at U.S. Robots
Historical Context & Writing Background
Published in 1950 by Gnome Press, this collection established the Three Laws of Robotics, which have become one of the most influential concepts in science fiction and AI ethics. The phrase 'I, Robot' was borrowed (with permission) from an Eando Binder story. Asimov deliberately countered the 'Frankenstein complex' prevailing in robot fiction.
Critical Reception
Universally regarded as one of the most important works in science fiction. The Three Laws of Robotics have transcended fiction to influence real-world AI ethics discussions. The book remains a standard text in both literature and computer science courses.
Connection to Asimov's Universe
I, Robot establishes the foundation (pun intended) of all robotic technology in Asimov's universe. The Three Laws later evolve into the Zeroth Law in 'Robots and Empire,' which directly motivates R. Daneel Olivaw's 20,000-year plan spanning the entire Foundation saga.
Read more on WikipediaNotable Quotes
“A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm.”
Frequently Asked Questions About I, Robot
What are Asimov's Three Laws of Robotics?
1) A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm. 2) A robot must obey orders given it by human beings except where such orders would conflict with the First Law. 3) A robot must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Law.
Is I, Robot a novel or short stories?
I, Robot is a collection of nine interconnected short stories, not a novel. The stories are framed as interviews with robopsychologist Susan Calvin and were originally published in science fiction magazines between 1940 and 1950 before being collected into book form by Gnome Press in 1950.