“Dex took note of Mosscap’s phrasing. ‘So, it is correct, then? You wouldn’t prefer they or—’
‘Oh, no, no, no. Those sorts of words are for people. Robots are not people. We’re machines, and machines are objects. Objects are its.’
‘I’d say you’re more than just an object,’ Dex said.
The robot looked a touch offended. ‘I would never call you just an animal, Sibling Dex.’ It turned its gaze to the road, head held high. ‘We don’t have to fall into the same category to be of equal value.’
Dex had never thought about it like that. ‘You’re right,’ they said. ‘I’m sorry.’”
~ from “A Psalm for the Wild-Built: A Monk and Robot Book” by Becky Chambers
Last Updated on April 12, 2026 | Published: October 27, 2025