Robots in Religious Practices: A Review

Abstract

A growing number of robots perform religious practices. Consequently, a lot of research is already done on robots and religion. What has been missing from the current research landscape is a complete overview of current religious robots. The goal of this contribution is to provide such an overview through a review of the current literature. We searched several databases to identify 18 different religious robots deployed in various religious contexts. After presenting those, we briefly address issues related to robots in different religions, the embodiment and reception of these robots, and when a robot can be considered "religious."