"The Dangers of Supernormal Stimuli Glenn correctly notes that such robots would constitute yet one more example of what evolutionary psychologists call a supernormal stimulus (a concept introduced by ethologist Niko Tinbergen). Human beings seem unable to stop creating new supernormal stimuli-bigger than real-life versions of things we enjoy. Those who manufacture and sell such supernormal products are getting rich. And the people who buy them are not complaining."
"At least not until they find themselves morbidly obese from eating Big Macs or unable to tear themselves away from pornography or video games, wasting hours of their lives, failing to meet their obligations at work, and missing out on every kind of normal, face-to-face human interaction. There is indeed a real danger here. Glenn is also clearly correct in predicting that the major market for sex robots will be men."
Sex robots represent a potential supernormal stimulus that could amplify sexual rewards beyond natural interactions. Such technologies may lower marriage and birth rates and reduce face-to-face intimacy, while generating profits for manufacturers and excessive consumption among users. Consequences can include addiction-like behaviors, neglect of responsibilities, and physical harm from overindulgence. The primary market is likely to be men, raising concerns about male exploitation and altered mating dynamics. Sex robots may serve as alternatives for involuntary celibates. Falling birth rates could have environmental benefits, and selection dynamics could gradually favor men with stronger intimacy skills. Evolutionary psychology offers a framework to analyze and respond to these outcomes.
Read at Psychology Today
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