220 glossary
automation. The technology by which action is performed without
human assistance.
automaton, automata. A self- moving mechanical or constructed device,
usually resembling an animal or human, that is not directly operated
by an agent. Some automata are machines that perform tasks accord-
ing to predetermined instructions; some automata can respond with
a range of responses to different circumstances.
bionic. Having artificial body parts that amplify human or animal powers.
biotechne. Ancient Greek bio, life, techne, craft, art, science, the applica-
tion of knowledge to practice.
biotechnology. Technology based on manipulating biological organ-
isms, living systems, or their components to develop, modify, or make
products or processes.
black box. Complex entity, machine, or system whose outputs are known
or observable but whose inner contents and internal workings are
hidden, unknown, opaque, and mysterious to the user.
cyborg, cybernetic organism. A being, usually humanoid, that com-
bines or integrates organic, biological components with artificial
technology, a human- machine hybrid, often exceeding human
capabilities.
device. An object, gadget, instrument, contrivance, or apparatus made
for a particular purpose, often denoting a mechanical item.
fembot. A robot in the form of a human female.
machine. A mechanical structure or device based on one or more com-
ponents (such as lever, pulley, wheel and axle, inclined plane, screw,
wedge) that changes the direction or magnitude of a force.
machine learning. Computers and AI with the ability to learn inde-
pendently, without being explicitly programmed.
mechanism, mechanical. Something made of parts that move or work
together to perform an action; a machine or something resembling
a machine.
programmed. Supplied with a predetermined set of (coded) instructions
for automatic performance.
puppet, marionette, doll. An artificial model of a human or animal typ-
ically moved by hand, rods, wires, or strings.
rejuvenation. To make a living being young again, to restore youthful
strength, vigor, and/or appearance.