Fearing the takeover of technology, and the existence of human-kind is a debate that surfaces quite often in the history of electronics. Bill Joy, largely being respected in the Computer Industry, argues this and I think it holds merit. Even though this was written in April of the year 2000, at the time I would see some people thinking him as a crazy. Much of his argument seemingly sounds like it came straight from a science fiction film. Reading his article now, his prophecies hold a little truth. I too think at one point in my lifetime, computers will hold knowledge comparable to the human mind, but I am not convinced this as being something to be feared, but more of as an opportunity and reason to learn from what we have created and stay on top of our creations.
A big fear of mine with the rise of technology and the relevance of man, comes down to laziness. Technology and the rapid growth is killing basic functions in the world, and increasing the laziness of humanity. It’s like we are sloth-ing ourselves in the wake of our creations. Instead of studying and learning about something out of a book in a traditional manner, I have a computer in my pocket to work the answer for me, thus killing the necessity to think for myself.
“Our most powerful 21st-century technologies — robotics, genetic engineering, and nanotech — are threatening to make humans an endangered species." GNR, as Bill Joy refers it. Joy talks of genetic engineering in terms or agriculture in raising productivity being able to cut out pesticides. Genetic engineering will be able to create cures for diseases, and help us all live longer. The manipulation of genes can bring on problems that Joy talks about. Cloning and stem-cells both raise important ethical issues. Joy also brings up the factor of certain safety issues. For instance in genetically engineered crops there could be mutations and dangerous side effects.
Nanotechnology would be the study and work of matter on the smallest level. It is the bottom-up science that is heavily involved in medicines, electronics, energy production, electronics and biomaterials. Joy warns of the incredible and destructive power that this technology holds. While manipulating these atoms on such a small level, one could help in medical situations in rapidly encouraging the re-growth of cells. Used wrongly this could be detrimental.
Robotics, of course we already see this in today’s manufacturing. I could agree that it has replaced humans in manufacturing and production industries, just not completely.
Overall, I agree to Joy’s thoughts on the relevance of human-kind and machine. Though not completely, maybe it’s because I give man too much credit in the hopes that instead of rolling over and let it happen, humanity will learn from the technology provided and stay on top.
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