Siri pulls a HAL

Remember in 2001: A Space Odyssey when HAL refused to provide assistance? Looks like Siri has a similar problem when it comes to helping women who need emergency health services.

Via Think Progress:

“What may I help you with?” So begins Siri — the unique voice-activated assistant of the iPhone 4s that promises to deliver accurate and tailored answers for your every need. Unless you’re a woman in search of health services like birth control, emergency contraception, abortion, or even mammogram tests. Then the interactive search wizard draws a blank.

[snip]

More disturbingly, Siri would not respond to pleas for help for sexual assault or rape clinics, and services for emergency contraception.

Apparently, however, it's quite adept at locating escort services...

Progress!