One of the most controversial aspects of the rise of intelligent machines is the development of what are known as ‘lethal autonomous systems’ and what they will mean for the way wars are fought. Initial discussions in the UN in recent years have focused on the need to retain some form of human control, as well as considering the potential risks and benefits.

Roboticist and robot ethics expert Ron Arkin has worked extensively on the military applications of robots. In his work, he asks difficult questions about how scientists can reduce human inhumanity to others. Join him to find out more about the big questions: Should robots be soldiers? Can they make war safer for civilians?