When we think of humans being replaced by automation we often think of robotic devices such as ABB arms, Asimo, and such. But it appears the greater influence

When we think of humans being replaced by automation we often think of robotic devices such as ABB arms, Asimo, and such. But it appears the greater influence may come from "stationary," large-scale, HAL-like systems designed to interact effectively with human beings. Watching Watson run-up the score so quickly was unsettling and I now understand why Kasparov cried. It makes one truly realize that nowadays, if the task can be automated, it probably will be.