A play about the revolt of workers – not machinery – gave us the word 'robot'

By Emma Bowman

Published September 11, 2025 at 5:03 PM EDT

Melania Trump used the word during a recent White House task force meeting to refer to AI. But "robot," was first introduced in a 1920 Czech play in which human workers were the robots.

Emma Bowman

See stories by Emma Bowman

WRVO is at a critical moment.

Recent cuts to federal funding are challenging our mission to serve central and upstate New York with trusted journalism, vital local coverage, and the diverse programming that informs and connects our communities. This is the moment to join our community of supporters and help keep journalists on the ground, asking hard questions that matter to our region.

Stand with public media and make your gift today—not just for yourself, but for all who depend on WRVO as a trusted resource and civic cornerstone in central and upstate New York.

Support WRVO now