Transhumanism: Navigating the Promises and Perils of AI
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Chapter 1: Understanding Transhumanism
Currently, I am in the process of creating a series of blog posts that delve into an insightful book on Artificial Intelligence titled 2084 by Professor John Lennox. It’s important to note that although he identifies as a Christian and I do not, I hold a great deal of respect for his intellect and perspective.
In this discussion, we will examine the foundational beliefs that drive the swift advancements in Artificial Intelligence, particularly the ideology known as Transhumanism. I will clarify what this term means and explain why, despite the noble intentions behind it, there are significant reasons to approach it with caution.
What is Transhumanism?
Professor Lennox traces the origins of the term back to the early 19th century, but its meaning has evolved in recent decades to reflect a techno-secular viewpoint, diverging from its initial religious context. Nick Bostrom defines Transhumanism as:
“…an intellectual and cultural movement that champions the potential and desirability of significantly enhancing the human condition through reasoned application, especially by creating and disseminating technologies that aim to eliminate aging and improve human intellectual, physical, and psychological abilities.”
So, what’s the issue with that? The concept itself is harmless, but the intricacies involved can lead to troubling outcomes. The underlying narrative of this ideology—especially as it is likely to be communicated—often reveals a much less idyllic reality than we might hope for.
The mechanism for this transformation is likely to be through Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). Terms like "Intelligence Explosion" and "Singularity" have gained traction over the past decade, popularized by techno-optimists like Ray Kurzweil. Yet, as I. J. Good suggested back in 1963:
“Let an ultraintelligent machine be defined as a machine that can far surpass all the intellectual activities of any man however clever. Since the design of machines is one of these intellectual activities, 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. That first ultraintelligent machine is the last invention man need ever make.”
It’s evident that we are increasingly becoming intertwined with robotic technologies. Automation is on the rise, and everything is becoming connected through the 'Internet of Things'. Wi-Fi is nearly omnipresent, with many household appliances now online.
With emerging technologies like Elon Musk's Neuralink and various medical devices, many of Kurzweil's predictions seem increasingly plausible. This would signify the dawn of cyborg technologies, which aim to fulfill the Transhumanist vision of eliminating aging and enhancing human abilities, as previously quoted from Bostrom.
Why Should We Care?
Herein lies the crux of the matter: your personal worldview and the prevailing societal mindset are incredibly significant! While many of us are not outright opposed to advancements like these—consider that even pacemakers are a form of cyborg technology—there are profound implications regarding privacy, particularly with devices like Neuralink that can interface directly with our brains.
These advancements could rapidly escalate privacy issues, much like mobile phones and social media have done, complicating our understanding of personal privacy. As this technology gains traction, it’s conceivable that thought-crime could become a reality. If surveillance capitalism is alarming now, imagine the implications of being perpetually connected to a network—almost telepathically.
What is Surveillance Capitalism?
In simple terms, surveillance capitalism refers to the practice where companies like Amazon and YouTube bombard users with content and advertisements tailored to their viewing or purchasing habits.
But is that all there is to it? The more profound concern involves the goal of transforming humanity into Homo Deus—essentially immortal beings. For those who identify as materialist atheists, this might seem liberating; however, it raises questions for the religious or idealist who views consciousness as fundamental. This paradigm shift could be seen as fundamentally unnatural.
Consider another perspective: if you’re a functionalist who argues that consciousness is defined solely by behavior, what happens to our understanding of what it means to be human? As I discussed in a previous video on the Turing Test, we may inadvertently sacrifice the very essence of humanity that gives life meaning. Hence, concerns about AI are not unfounded. It’s not merely about fearing a dystopian future where machines dominate humanity; the ramifications are far more complex.
Professor John Lennox, despite our differing viewpoints, offers a critical insight that resonates deeply:
“If…programmers are informed by relativistic or biased ethics, the same will be reflected in their products. For that reason, it is surely important that those with transcendent ethical convictions should have a seat at the ethics table when discussing the potential problems of AI.”
What are Transcendent Ethics?
When Professor Lennox refers to “transcendent ethics,” he is likely advocating for a moral framework grounded in principles beyond mere reductionism, naturalism, and utilitarianism.
Your Perspective Matters
Concerns regarding Artificial Intelligence are inevitably shaped by one’s worldview. In conclusion, while Transhumanism embodies noble aspirations, like many ideologies, it carries troubling implications that warrant careful consideration.
Speak Up!
I invite you to share your thoughts below. Is Transhumanism a worthy pursuit? Do you believe death is a natural and essential part of life? Join the discussion, because if Ray Kurzweil is correct, the future is approaching rapidly.
Chapter 2: The Dangers of Transhumanism
In this video, titled "Transhumanism: The World's Most Dangerous Idea," Philosophy Tube explores the ethical and philosophical dilemmas posed by the pursuit of Transhumanism.
The second video, "Transhumanism: Could We Live Forever?" from BBC News, examines the implications of seeking immortality and its potential consequences on humanity.