Sample Solution

In his short story “Robbie”, Isaac Asimov creates a world in which robots are not just accepted but are a part of everyday life. To achieve this, he carefully integrates both the familiar and unfamiliar elements of robot technology into the narrative.

The most obvious way that Asimov combines these two concepts is through the use of language. Throughout Robbie, he uses words that evoke an understanding of traditional robot-human relationships such as “robots”, “servants” and “masters” in order to make readers feel comfortable with the idea that robots exist alongside humanity. He also includes new terms such as “positronic brain” to describe robotic technologies which have never before been encountered (Asimov 2019). This mix of familiar and unfamiliar vocabulary serves to bridge any potential gap between reader knowledge and robotic capability.

Moreover, Asimov introduces several unfamiliar technical details about Robbie’s positronic brain while still using simple language so as not to confuse or intimidate readers who may be less knowledgeable about robotics (ibid). For example, when discussing how Robbie stores memories within its circuits he states: “each level was divided into twenty segments … all interrelated by their connection with each other”(ibid.). This description provides enough detail for readers to understand what is occurring without being overwhelmed by complex scientific explanations.

Overall, Asimov skillfully integrates both recognizable terminology and more advanced concepts surrounding robotics in order to create a believable universe where people live in symbiosis with machines. His use of language acts as an effective bridge between reader expectation and novel ideas making it possible for him to create a truly immersive experience.