George A. Bekey (born 1935) is an American engineer, educator, and researcher noted for his contributions to robotics, artificial intelligence, and engineering education. He is professor emeritus of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Southern California (USC) and served as dean of the USC Viterbi School of Engineering.
Early life and education
Bekey earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Texas A&M University in 1956. He subsequently completed a Master of Science (1959) and a Doctor of Philosophy (1965) in Electrical Engineering at Stanford University.
Academic and professional career
After graduate study, Bekey worked for Hughes Aircraft Company, where he engaged in research on guidance and control systems. In 1974, he joined the faculty of the University of Southern California. At USC, he held appointments in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science and was appointed dean of the Viterbi School of Engineering from 1990 to 1998. He later became professor emeritus, continuing to supervise research and teach courses in robotics and ethics.
Research contributions
Bekey’s research has focused on mobile robotics, robot vision, telerobotics, and the societal implications of advanced technology. He has authored and co‑authored numerous peer‑reviewed articles on robot locomotion, autonomous navigation, and human‑robot interaction. His work has also addressed ethical considerations in robotics, emphasizing the need for responsible design and deployment of autonomous systems.
Publications
Bekey is the author of several influential books, including:
- Robotics (MIT Press, 1975) – a comprehensive textbook on robot design and control.
- Robot Ethics: The Ethical and Social Implications of Robotics (co‑edited, 1999) – a collection exploring moral issues surrounding robotic technologies.
He has contributed chapters to edited volumes and has edited journals related to robotics and automation.
Professional service and honors
- President, IEEE Robotics and Automation Society (1993‑1994).
- Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
- Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
- IEEE Robotics and Automation Society Pioneer Award (1997).
Bekey has also served on advisory panels for governmental agencies, industry consortia, and academic institutions concerning robotics policy and education.
Impact and legacy
Through his research, teaching, and leadership in professional societies, George A. Bekey has helped shape the development of modern robotics and has promoted interdisciplinary dialogue on the ethical dimensions of emerging technologies. His textbooks and scholarly works continue to be used in engineering curricula worldwide.
