ARST349
Thesis:
Humans are inherently connected to technology because being able to create and use tools is a large part of how we define ourselves. Tools have always been mere extensions of ourselves, however, with the current and future enhancements in technology, humans and our tools are becoming even more closely linked.
In a future so comprised with and controlled by technology, the idea of true privacy and the protection of one’s privacy may be no longer. Advancements in technology, while amazing and beneficial on many levels, can open doors that allow others to peer into the very thoughts and actions that we would prefer to keep private. Furthermore, developments in newer, more covert methods of spying will surely arise. “Big Brother” could be watching at, literally, any moment.
Thesis:
Emerging human advancements will definitely enhance the living standards of mankind to no end. However, such enhancements will only benefit those who can afford them. As of now, the world has been and is still filled with unbalanced wealth distribution, underdeveloped countries, and unstable economic environment causing only a handful of privileged elites to prosper.
The discovery that every life in the world is indeed a set of data allows the possibility that one day, we would be able to create genetically engineered organic robots that have the same intellectual and emotional qualities as of humans. If that happened, how would we treat these robots and use them to further increase our productivity? Would they have equal rights with human-beings or would racism repeat itself in a new form of struggle in which “robots” are forbidden to make decisions, to love and to pursue happiness?
In the distant future, technology will allow humans to explore the universe through surrogates controlled by their own mind on Earth. Ultimately, their lives will be consumed by this technology, in which they are able to live a fantasy life through any robot, animal, or being for eternity.
Human technology is a power so potent that, if taken to the extreme, could make us nearly divine, complete with extreme longevity, strength, health, and intelligence. While many argue over whether technology is good or evil, it is our choices as to what we do with this technology that will determine whether we become angels or demons. Such technology could just as easily move us closer to nature as it could separate us from it.
Technology can help physically disabled people regain function of their limbs. With further advances in prostheses, people will be able to achieve a higher potential than those with natural extremities. These new augmented abilities may spur able-bodied people to get these prostheses themselves.
Though we have not quite reached the phase where humans have physically converted to a makeup reliant upon technology, a world of humans who have transitioned to that stage may be a possibility for the future. Nature has inspired many technologies (like those involving movement and flight), and ironically, because of these developments, we as humans are losing our connection with nature. It has inspired so many technologies, yet can be so easily ignored by the average human being. What happens when it decides to seek vengeance? When it decides to take back what it has given?
