From Internet Sex to Robot Sex: State of Research and Challenges for the Science of Sexuality.

Sexuality-related Internet use (Internet sex) is widespread these days and well researched. The current transition from the Internet age to the robotic age now raises the issue of sexuality-related robot use (robot sex). This article demonstrates that robot sex is already practiced by some people and that it has been the subject of academic debate for ten years. Based on different sources (scientific literature, press cover-age, fictional media representations, advertisements and product reviews by users) what we know about robot sex and its negative and positive consequences is outlined. The paper argues that the discipline of sex science should improve our understanding of the technical artefacts, the users and uses of robot sex through sound empirical research. Furthermore, it is stressed that ethical responsibility in the digital age cannot be assumed from a position of, critical distance" towards technological change alone. Sex experts are called on to be involved in the development and appropriation of robot sex to foster helpful and healthy uses in private, educational and therapeutical settings.