Post by lawrencebiteranta on Nov 9, 2015 9:11:28 GMT
Looking back into history, we can see how the intelligence of mankind evolved. From the discovery of fire, to the development of the hammer, and even the invention of the wheel. Each tool invented was created as an extension of the individual using the tool. As technology increases exponentially and humans reach “the singularity”, humans will replace each part of their own body with a technological extension of themselves, ultimately transforming themselves into a sort of robotic species.
First, it should be noted that singularity is defined as the theory that technologies will continue to improve exponentially, reaching a point where machines will be much more capable at designing and improving machines than humans are, in which “the rules of ordinary physics do not apply”. A British mathematician, known as I.J. Good, described this as an "intelligence explosion", in which “an ultraintelligent machine could design even better machines; there would then unquestionably be an ‘intelligence explosion,’ and the intelligence of man would be left far behind” (Grossmen 2). The ultraintelligent machine, of course, would be originally derived from modern gadgets as we know them. As we constantly search for ways to improve our lives with the use of technology, we, as a society, become closer to singularity.
Looking at modern gadgets as a reference point, we are able to see that we have already solidified these devices as semi-permanent extensions of ourselves. For example, most adults require the use of a car to get around, which is what our legs are used for. Essentially, the vehicle in question becomes an extension of our legs, increasing the maximum speed and distance we can travel. Without cars, many adults would feel stranded in comparison to others.
Furthermore, by looking at the exponential growth of technology from our past, we can predict the outcome of future technological inventions. Google’s recently released product, known as “Google Glass”, increases the efficiency of our eyesight by showing us “everything from text messages to maps to reminders” (Goldman 1). Again, this is an invention created to extend our functionalities. We can predict the future of this device by comparing it to the invention of the wheel leading into the invention of the car. When the wheel was invented, it was not a staple in society. Despite this, the car was invented, utilizing the prior invention of the wheel, and solidifying its position within our society, practically becoming a requirement for adults to have. We can perhaps assume that a product similar to Google Glass will become a staple in society, just like the wheel became the car. Similar to how optical lenses led to the invention of contact lenses, perhaps we will see the invention of technologically advanced contact lenses, succeeding Google Glass.
Extensions, however, are often limited by what it is that it extends. Once that limit is reached, the only way to improve functionalities is to replace it entirely. An example of this can be seen in personal computers. Parts of a computer on the motherboard can be upgraded, however, the overall speed of a computer will be limited by the motherboard itself. By replacing the motherboard, you surpass the original limitation, but you have essentially replaced the whole computer by then. Humans, similarly, are limited by our own bodies. We can assume once these limits are reached by the extensions we invent, we will began replacing and upgrading our own body parts. Stated in a video regarding Global Positioning Intelligence, "Google glass is merely an awkward transition from a partial smart augmentation, [from] the iPhone or android devices in our pocket or hands or close up to our face, to a fully implanted one" (GPI). Essentially, Google Glass will lead to technologically advanced contact lenses, succeeded by a replacement to the eye itself, leading into the invention of a technologically advanced eyeball altogether.
The fate of our society is ultimately the replacement of each of our bodies with limitless technologies, surpassing our limitations. Artificial improvements and replacements to our bodies will not stop at our eyes. Perhaps the exponential growth of technology will not lead to “The Singularity”, in which we are left behind by intelligent artificial beings destined for exponential technological growth, but perhaps the true “singularity” will occur when we fuse together with these technological beings, replacing our minds and bodies with artificially improved parts. We, ultimately, will not just create the super intelligent self-improving beings, we will become them.
Works Cited
GPI / GLOBAL POSITIONING INTELLIGENCE / Telepathy in a Digital Future. Dir. Neuralsurfer. YouTube. N.p., 13 May 2013. Web. 9 Nov. 2015.Grossman, Lev. "2045: The Year Man Becomes Immortal." Time. Time Inc., 10 Feb. 2011. Web. 09 Nov. 2015.
Goldman, David. "Google Unveils 'Project Glass' Smart Glasses." CNNMoney. Cable News
Network, 4 Apr. 2012. Web. 09 Nov. 2015.