Simulated Despondency for Robots in Distress

It is widely accepted that increased human interaction with natural systems is responsible for complex environmental issues, with most current thinking centered on the provision of advanced technological solutions. One response emerging from current bioinspired robotics research proposes artificial neural networks (ANNs) enhanced with artificial hormones for increased performance and efficiency. Here the authors discuss their artistic project concept, developed in collaboration with a bioinspired artificial life lab, considering the affordance of emotional robotics to develop despondency in the field.