Navigating the discourse on the use of social robot Pepper: ethical and practical implications

Abstract Background Social robots such as Pepper are increasingly researched as potential tools that could support the care of older persons. Our goal is to highlight the multiplicity of perspectives and varied rationales held by participants in Switzerland for accepting or rejecting Pepper when used for caregiving purposes. Methods Qualitative one-on-one interviews were completed with 116 persons living in two linguistic regions of Switzerland. The participants were either (a) older persons; (b) family caregivers; or (c) professional caregivers. Data related to the social robot, Pepper, from the interviews were sorted and analyzed thematically for this paper. Results Themes highlight the different reasons for rejecting the use of Pepper, as well as finding space for it when necessary. Specifically, the rejection of Pepper stemmed and varied from just not wanting to use the technology, to perceiving oneself and older persons as being “too old”, to having ethical concerns and the omnipresent fear of the replacement of human care. Nevertheless, upon realizing that such social robots might have to be used, participants also discussed some of the advantages for certain groups, tasks where robots may be useful for, as well as the notion of robotic use as a second-best option. Conclusions Not all older persons will accept the use of robotics tools for their care, even when they may be in need. This study discovered a generational rationale for refusing such robotic care. Individual autonomy to use such tools, costs, and their added value in addressing practical gaps in the lives of older person were important factors to consider when making policy decisions, as well as, in developing technology. There is therefore a greater need for policy makers and technology developers to consider the heterogeneity among the older adult population.