Robot Dreams

Dr. Susan Calvin is a dynamic and round character who faces a complex ethical dilemma. She is the protagonist of “Robot Dreams” and the symbolic ethical compass of the story, highlighting the complicated moral and philosophical questions that arise when dealing with advanced artificial intelligence. Dr. Calvin’s authority defines her. Dr. Rash describes her as the “Old Woman” and the “Living Legend,” nicknames that denote fear and awe. As the corporation’s Head Psychologist, she has the final word on all matters related to robot intelligence. Even her speech conveys her authority. When she emphasizes how seriously Dr. Rash has transgressed in not consulting her on Elvex’s brain design, she says, “I myself, I, Susan Calvin, would have discussed this” (52), highlighting that even as the highest authority in the organization, she would not have undertaken such a potentially dangerous action on her own.

Dr. Calvin undergoes a subtle but significant transformation throughout the story, especially in her understanding of the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. She begins the narrative as a rational scientist, but by the end of the story, she has transformed into a moral arbiter. She’s forced to make a decision that has profound ethical implications.