Bicentennial Man

Bicentennial Man is a science fiction novella by Isaac Asimov, originally published in 1976. It follows Andrew Martin, a robot who gradually becomes more human through self-modification and emotional growth over 200 years. The story explores themes of consciousness, identity, and the boundary between artificial and human life as Andrew pursues legal recognition of his humanity and eventually mortality.

The work was adapted into a 1999 feature film starring Robin Williams and Sam Neill, directed by Chris Columbus. The film expands the novella's narrative, emphasizing Andrew's emotional journey and his relationship with the Martin family across generations. Both versions examine what it means to be human—whether through biological origin, consciousness, or choice—and have become influential in science fiction discussions of artificial intelligence and personhood.