Synthorgs

Synthorgs (short for synthetic organisms), more commonly referred to a synths, are a type of robot designed to emulate human beings. They are typically constructed in with a humanoid body plan, but in such a way that they are obviously synthetic and could not be mistaken for humans, though some (typically illegal) exceptions exist. Their processors and programming are designed to simulate human brains as closely as possible, and they generally display behaviour consistent with sapient life. This has led many, particularly in the Avastus Directorate where synths are common, to claim that they are conscious beings deserving of rights, though they are still viewed as machines in most of human space.   Following advancements in the design of synths, and the production of several thousand advanced models, the Avastus Directorate voted in 2591 to grant human rights to synths, and citizenship to those intelligent enough to meet the Directorate's strict citizenship requirements (which resulted in most becoming citizens). This sparked condemnation from numerous other states, including the Judicate of Nuragia, Grand Principality of Koyuk, Union of Interstellar Communes, and several colonies of the United Colonies of Columbia. These states denied the possibility of a machine being conscious, and condemned Avastus treating what they viewed as unthinking machines more freedom and a greater quality of "life" than most of its human population. Avastus responded by dismissing these claims as the result of "religious and ideological extremism". While most within the governments of Zeta Tucanae and Orizont do not claim to believe synths are actually alive, both powers have refrained from taking formal positions on the synth question, not wanting to alienate either side in light of the ongoing cold war.   Avastan synths are generally treated as people in most states, if nothing else to avoid diplomatic incidents. However, synths are prohibited from entering the territory of Nuragia, Koyuk, the UIC, several Columbian colonies, and several Luaxan Republics.