Aversion against machines with complex mental abilities: The role of individual differences

Abstract

Theory suggests that robots with human-like mental capabilities (i.e., high agency and experience) evoke stronger aversion than robots without these capabilities. Yet, while several studies support this prediction, there is also evidence that the mental prowess of robots could be evaluated positively, at least by some individuals. To help resolving this ambivalence, we focused on rather stable individual differences that may shape users’ responses to machines with different levels of (perceived) mental ability. Specifically, we explored four key variables as potential moderators: monotheistic religiosity, the tendency to anthropomorphize, prior attitudes towards robots, and the general affinity for complex technology. Two pre-registered online experiments (N₁ = 391, N₂ = 617) were conducted, using text vignettes to introduce participants to a robot with or without complex, human-like capabilities. Results showed that negative attitudes towards robots increased the relative aversion against machines with (vs. without) complex minds, whereas technology affinity weakened the difference between conditions. Results for monotheistic religiosity turned out mixed, while the tendency to anthropomorphize had no significant impact on the evoked aversion. Overall, we conclude that certain individual differences play an important role in perceptions of machines with complex minds and should be considered in future research.