Work, Automation, and Human Agency

Where'd You Go Bernadette

Elgin’s technology and Bernadette’s use of remote labor form a contrast about convenience, independence, and who performs the work that sustains a life.

increasing

Bearing strength in each event

decreasing

A Robot Named Samantha A Robot Named Samantha from "Where'd You Go Bernadette". A Robot Named Samantha Automation as assistance Elgin develops Samantha, a voice-controlled robot that can perform simple household tasks.

A Robot Named Samantha from "Where'd You Go Bernadette". A Robot Named Samantha Automation as assistance Elgin develops Samantha, a voice-controlled robot that can perform simple household tasks.

A Robot Named Samantha Automation as assistance Elgin develops Samantha, a voice-controlled robot that can perform simple household tasks. The project reflects a belief that technology can extend what people are able to do. Limits become visible The robot’s cost and mechanical complexity prevent it from scaling. The experience leads Elgin to seek a different interface rather than abandoning the goal of practical assistance.

A Thought-Controlled System A Thought-Controlled System from "Where'd You Go Bernadette". A Thought-Controlled System Removing the robot Samantha 2 uses brain signals to operate household technology without a mobile robot.

A Thought-Controlled System from "Where'd You Go Bernadette". A Thought-Controlled System Removing the robot Samantha 2 uses brain signals to operate household technology without a mobile robot.

A Thought-Controlled System Removing the robot Samantha 2 uses brain signals to operate household technology without a mobile robot. The demonstration reveals a more direct form of access for people whose movement is limited. Independence as a goal Elgin’s presentation emphasizes wounded veterans’ ability to cook, watch television, and use a computer. The project treats technology as a tool for agency rather than merely convenience.

Remote Work at Home Remote Work at Home from "Where'd You Go Bernadette". Remote Work at Home A life outsourced Bernadette uses Manjula to arrange travel, errands, and household tasks without leaving the house.

Remote Work at Home from "Where'd You Go Bernadette". Remote Work at Home A life outsourced Bernadette uses Manjula to arrange travel, errands, and household tasks without leaving the house.

Remote Work at Home A life outsourced Bernadette uses Manjula to arrange travel, errands, and household tasks without leaving the house. The service offers a version of assistance that does not depend on a machine. Human costs hidden Bernadette values the arrangement for its convenience, but the virtual connection conceals the labor relationship and exposes the family to identity theft. Convenience depends on trust that has not been earned.

A Family Disagreement About Tools

A Family Disagreement About Tools Bee’s accusation Bee argues that both Elgin’s project and Bernadette’s assistant arrange for someone else to handle tasks. She uses the comparison to challenge her father’s condemnation of Bernadette. Different purposes Elgin’s research aims to restore independence to people with disabilities, while Bernadette’s service helps her avoid social contact. The comparison exposes both the power of technology and the limits of equating assistance with avoidance.

The Work Continues Elsewhere The Work Continues Elsewhere from "Where'd You Go Bernadette". The Work Continues Elsewhere A project interrupted Microsoft cancels Samantha 2 as a medical application and folds the work into games.

The Work Continues Elsewhere from "Where'd You Go Bernadette". The Work Continues Elsewhere A project interrupted Microsoft cancels Samantha 2 as a medical application and folds the work into games.

The Work Continues Elsewhere A project interrupted Microsoft cancels Samantha 2 as a medical application and folds the work into games. Elgin leaves the company rather than treating the original goal as complete. Purpose beyond institution He hopes to continue research at the University of Washington despite losing control of the patents. His decision suggests that meaningful work can outlast the organization that first funded it.

Before the events of the main story

At Elgin’s TED presentation

During the Seattle years

During Bee and Elgin’s voyage

After Samantha 2 is canceled