Uncovering values in the use of the artefact Sample Clauses

Uncovering values in the use of the artefact. At this second step, we aim to understand the values that lie in the use of surgical robots. The interviews with surgeons at the University of Pisa have highlighted the phenomenon described by the theory of ANT. With the introduction of da Vinci, personal relations in the operating room have changed. This change does not affect only the surgeon, but rather the whole team. The relationship between agents has been strengthened. Through the interaction and cooperation of humans and machines, both are more and more dependent on each other and on each other’s skills and actions. It creates an alliance between humans and machines that creates the perception of being part of one collective agent. In the event of an accident it becomes very difficult to analyse and reconstruct the individual action and responsibility. The current selection process of surgical trainees does not include testing for the psychomotor and manipulative skills of the candidates (Xxxxxx et al., 2014). With the introduction of da Vinci future surgeons have the possibility to experience operations through an advanced virtual reality surgical simulator. In the process, it has become increasingly clear that surgeons should, in fact, be selected based on their performance in the operating room, which can be simulated using da Vinci Simulator. To that extent, da Vinci has indeed made the academic community – and especially those who train young surgeons – more aware of the fact that surgery is a craftsmanship and not a mere academic exercise. Furthermore, gender issues should be investigated. Since surgery is a male domain it needs to be investigated whether the machine supports the status quo or is able to promote a new vision of gender equality. Above that, hospital policies may be affected negatively by the economic interests that go along with the use of the da Vinci robot. E.g., its steep costs have to be paid off. Surgeons are hence likely to advise in favour of the use of the robot even in cases where it is not, in fact, advisable. An additional point that should be noted in this context is the prestige of the system and its implications for the practice of surgeons. Using the robot may function as an ego boost. And surgeons may feel inclined to advise its use even if it is not entirely in the interests of their patients.