The Singularity Is Near : When Humans Transcend Biology
Author:
Genres: Computers & Technology, Science & Math, Engineering & Transportation
Book Type: Hardcover
Author:
Genres: Computers & Technology, Science & Math, Engineering & Transportation
Book Type: Hardcover
Helpful Score: 1
Kurzweil believes that 'technology will be the metaphorical opposable thumb that enables our next step in evolution' where 'nonbiological mediums will be able to emulate the richness, subtlety and depth of human thinking.'
Through advancements in Genetics, Nanotechnology, and Robotics (GNR) we will have significantly increased lifespans, the ability to replicate our entire environment on a molecular level (including our natural resources) and become the masters of our own intelligence. Other advances include truly submersive virtual reality that will incorporate all of the senses and AI that can improve and design it's next generation without human guidance.
Many of the capabilities Kurzweil describes are very reminiscent of science fiction (think I, Robot or The Matrix). I am in both skeptical disbelief and general awe of many of Kurzweil's predictions- specifically the timeline he has set for the Singularity, within the next 30 years. (But isn't that just like a futurist to have an optimistic timeframe? Where's our jet packs and hover crafts promised from the 50's and 60's?)
This book is outside of my normal window of interest so with that in mind, here's my opinion: I found the book to be interesting and insightful. Kurzweil cites studies in technology and other fields extensively to illustrate his claims and does his best to keep the language within reasonable grasp of the lay- person (though it still manages to get away from him at times).
With the potential of the technologies that Kurzweil describes, as a species we either have a very bright future or a very dark one (again, think I, Robot or The Matrix).
Through advancements in Genetics, Nanotechnology, and Robotics (GNR) we will have significantly increased lifespans, the ability to replicate our entire environment on a molecular level (including our natural resources) and become the masters of our own intelligence. Other advances include truly submersive virtual reality that will incorporate all of the senses and AI that can improve and design it's next generation without human guidance.
Many of the capabilities Kurzweil describes are very reminiscent of science fiction (think I, Robot or The Matrix). I am in both skeptical disbelief and general awe of many of Kurzweil's predictions- specifically the timeline he has set for the Singularity, within the next 30 years. (But isn't that just like a futurist to have an optimistic timeframe? Where's our jet packs and hover crafts promised from the 50's and 60's?)
This book is outside of my normal window of interest so with that in mind, here's my opinion: I found the book to be interesting and insightful. Kurzweil cites studies in technology and other fields extensively to illustrate his claims and does his best to keep the language within reasonable grasp of the lay- person (though it still manages to get away from him at times).
With the potential of the technologies that Kurzweil describes, as a species we either have a very bright future or a very dark one (again, think I, Robot or The Matrix).
