The term “clanker” has emerged as a new derogatory slur, specifically targeting robots and artificial intelligence. The word saw a spike in Google Trends searches in June, propelled by a surge of TikTok videos using the term to berate delivery robots. The slur has spread beyond social media, even reaching the halls of Congress. Representative Ruben Gallego of Texas used “clanker” in a tweet about legislation requiring human customer service representatives, stating, “My new bill makes sure you don’t have to talk to a clanker if you don’t want to.” The rise of “clanker” is linked to the increased use of generative AI, evolving from a term referring to chatbots and image generators to any non-human robotic intelligence. The term itself originated from the 2005 Star Wars video game Republic Commando, where it was used as a derogatory descriptor for the clanking sounds of droids. (Newser)
PHONE TOPIC: What’s the most creative insult you’ve ever been called?