Intellectual Property

In The Terminator, Skynet displays the dangers of a lack of foresight of intellectual property in emerging technologies. Skynet is a human created advanced intelligence defense system. Skynet’s design reflects the power of technological innovation when intellectual property is weaponized. The portrayal of Skynet raises the question of who should be liable for harm done by a technological innocation. Is it the developers who created it, companies that funded it, or the governments that used it? By showing the catastrophic results of Skynet, the film critiques the lack of foresight and ethical considerations in handling technology with the potential to impact society on a massive scale.

While the film itself does not comment directly on intellectual property, it displays the consequences of failing to establish proper accountability and regulations for new technologies. Skynet serves as a reminder of the importance of being proactive in addressing the societal impact of emerging technologies.