Robots: Controversy of the Century

From way back to early nineties humanity selected a defensive and fearful position against
artificial intelligence. However, the catastrophic consequence that robots can substitute humanity
is just a myth explored only in film industries (Dube, 2015). Nowadays, when it comes to
implementing the most efficient technology in the hospitality industry, everyone falls in terror.
The seed of anxiety is that no one wants to be replaced. However, this is a misconception, welleducated business owners affirm that complementarity between computers and humans is the
path to build a great business (Thiel, 2014). Besides this, the masses tend to ignore great
accomplishments from complementarity, because human involvement makes them look less
bizarre. On the other hand, people feared the internet era as well, but now the majority is content
and reap its benefits. Sounds like an era of confusion. Thus, socialization and sense of
belongingness cannot and should not take place in the front office department of a hotel, rather it
should take place in spaces designated for this.
Although some people might fear the concept of artificial intelligence, robots suited a
complimentary product for humanity to achieve greater things. In addition, as mentioned by
Graetz and Michaels (2015) robots raised countries average growth rates by about 0.37
percentage points which means that the hospitality industry can benefit as well. Decrease in
labour, reduction of costs, and increase in efficiency are just a few facts to mention. As a matter
of fact, room prices will decrease globally and robots can be programmed to speak any language,
enabling the act of traveling accessible to a broader market. Thiel (2014) affirms that currently
Europeans turn out to be more depressed because there seems to be no higher purpose anymore.
Astonishing discoveries have been made. He also affirms that every cultures has a myth of
decline from some golden age, and the majority of people throughout history have been
pessimists. Proceeding the robotic development is comparable to a lottery, humanity either
vanish in the galaxy or obtains a utopian society.
Although many think of incorporating robots in front office as an end to the real excitement of
hospitality, it is obvious that hotels train their staff to fight their human emotions in favor of
guests and to always act as if they are extraordinary content. This causes an incongruence in their
inner self causing misery. The personnel is taught to continuously sustain a happy and cheerful
attitude and follow the script the guest is always right. Nothing bad here, but the kind of

Barascu Alexandru Victor 407038 | Module 3 GTPWC 2015-2016

Robots: Controversy of the Century

operational staff who truly enjoys their professional conduct and are 24/7 happy, are rare, so it
makes more sense to pass this act to robots.
In conclusion, robots will open a new horizon of fresh destinations and first-hand experiences.
With time humanity will learn to cooperate harmoniously with robots to increase comfort and
safety. The pessimism that Thiel (2014) talks about is present in Europe from the seventies. In
this day and age it looks as if most discoveries have been made and there is no higher purpose
anymore. If humanity gambles on robots and win, utopia is acquired. It is a matter of luck or
faith. Hence, robots will assist in doing what was previously unimaginable (Thiel, 2014).

Barascu Alexandru Victor 407038 | Module 3 GTPWC 2015-2016

Robots: Controversy of the Century

Reference
Dube, R. (2015). How Hollywood Has Depicted Artificial Intelligence Over The Years.
Retrieved from: http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/hollywood-depicted-artificial-intelligence-years/
Graetz, G., & Michaels, Guy (2015). Robots at Work. London, UK. Center of Economic
Performance.
Thiel, P. (2014). Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build The Future. New York, USA:
Crown Business.

Barascu Alexandru Victor 407038 | Module 3 GTPWC 2015-2016