Copyright (c) 2007 Derek Clontz/4-Page Media, Inc.

FIREBRAND feminists have issued a startling challenge to scientists: Build us robots to replace men by the year 2020 - or else.

And, amazingly, experts in the fields of computer science and artificial intelligence say it can be done.

“We can make a serviceable male ‘sex-bot‘ right now,” Dr. Pauline Fallington, whose scholarly books on robotics and artificial intelligence are considered standards in the field, told me exclusively.

“But what we’re hearing women say they want is a robot that can perform all the functions of the human male, a machine that can hold simple conversations, perform passably for short periods in bed, do chores around the house, and provide a sense of physical security for those who are uncomfortable living alone.

“A tall order, it would seem, but certainly within the realm of what’s possible. I’d say it’s quite likely that we can create robots that will compare quite favorably with men if not surpass them.“

Male advocacy groups are outraged by the suggestion that men can be replaced by machines, especially in the bedroom where imagination and creativity play as much of a role as “mechanics.”.

But growing numbers of women are thrilled by the prospect – and they’re pressing for it.

“It’s been a man’s world long enough,” fumes Marilyn Foste, British author of the controversial new book, Real Women Don’t Wear Tampons (Foste Sisters Press, London).

“Women are making gains in the workplace, so we don’t need men to support us. About the only thing we do need them for is sex, for companionship, for protection and to help out with the kids.

“Talk to any woman with a significant other and ask her about her guy. She’ll tell you he’s uncouth, demanding, lazy, seldom talks or offers support, and is only a marginal player in the sack.

“So how sophisticated does a robot have to be to top that? I would suggest to you, not very.”

Amazingly, gay men are jumping on the “replace men with robots” bandwagon, too.

“We figure if women get the robots, we’ll get the men,“ chortles gay activist Roger Delacourt, also of London.

“This could do wonders for the gay movement.”

While gay men and feminists lick their chops over what the future might bring, men who subscribe to traditional views of sex, marriage and the family unit are preparing to fight back.

“Contrary to what some women might say, men are still in control,” says Rev. Dr. Paul Mort, Dallas, Texas-based clergyman with a shortwave ministry. “We might be a silent majority now, but if you press us too far, I think you’ll see us bring the little fillies back under control.”