Transhumanism: Difference between revisions
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[[ | [[File:Hux-Oxon-72.jpg|thumb]] [[File:2001 NAL.jpg|thumb]] [[File:PPTCountdowntoSingularityLog.jpg|thumb]] [[File:Amish vs modern transportation.jpg|thumb]] Transhumanism | ||
Transhumanism is an intellectual and cultural movement that advocates for the transformation of the human condition by developing and making widely available sophisticated technologies to greatly enhance human intellect and physiology. The movement is based on the premise that humans can and should use technology to transcend the limitations of the human body and mind. | |||
== Overview == | |||
Transhumanism seeks to improve human capacities through advanced technologies. It is often associated with the study of the potential benefits and dangers of emerging technologies that could overcome fundamental human limitations, as well as the ethics of using such technologies. | |||
== History == | == History == | ||
The term "transhumanism" was first coined by | The term "transhumanism" was first coined by [[Julian Huxley]] in 1957, who described it as "man remaining man, but transcending himself, by realizing new possibilities of and for his human nature." The movement gained momentum in the late 20th century with the advent of new technologies and the increasing interest in [[artificial intelligence]], [[biotechnology]], and [[nanotechnology]]. | ||
== Core Concepts == | == Core Concepts == | ||
=== Human Enhancement === | |||
Human enhancement refers to any attempt to temporarily or permanently overcome the current limitations of the human body through natural or artificial means. This includes physical, cognitive, and emotional enhancements. | |||
=== Technological Singularity === | |||
The technological singularity is a hypothetical point in the future when technological growth becomes uncontrollable and irreversible, resulting in unforeseeable changes to human civilization. This concept is closely associated with the development of [[superintelligent]] machines. | |||
=== Life Extension === | |||
Life extension is a significant focus within transhumanism, aiming to extend human lifespan through various means such as [[cryonics]], genetic engineering, and regenerative medicine. | |||
== Ethical Considerations == | == Ethical Considerations == | ||
Transhumanism raises numerous ethical questions, including | Transhumanism raises numerous ethical questions, including concerns about inequality, the potential for coercion, and the loss of human identity. Critics argue that enhancing human capabilities could lead to new forms of discrimination and exacerbate social inequalities. | ||
== Criticism == | |||
Critics of transhumanism often point to the potential risks of emerging technologies, including the loss of privacy, the potential for misuse, and the ethical implications of altering human nature. Some argue that transhumanism could lead to a devaluation of human life and dignity. | |||
== | == Also see == | ||
* [[Bioethics]] | * [[Bioethics]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Cyborg]] | ||
* [[Futurism]] | |||
* [[Posthumanism]] | * [[Posthumanism]] | ||
* [[Singularitarianism]] | |||
* [[ | |||
{{Transhumanism}} | {{Transhumanism}} | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Philosophy]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Technology]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Future studies]] | ||
Revision as of 15:22, 9 December 2024
Transhumanism
Transhumanism is an intellectual and cultural movement that advocates for the transformation of the human condition by developing and making widely available sophisticated technologies to greatly enhance human intellect and physiology. The movement is based on the premise that humans can and should use technology to transcend the limitations of the human body and mind.
Overview
Transhumanism seeks to improve human capacities through advanced technologies. It is often associated with the study of the potential benefits and dangers of emerging technologies that could overcome fundamental human limitations, as well as the ethics of using such technologies.
History
The term "transhumanism" was first coined by Julian Huxley in 1957, who described it as "man remaining man, but transcending himself, by realizing new possibilities of and for his human nature." The movement gained momentum in the late 20th century with the advent of new technologies and the increasing interest in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and nanotechnology.
Core Concepts
Human Enhancement
Human enhancement refers to any attempt to temporarily or permanently overcome the current limitations of the human body through natural or artificial means. This includes physical, cognitive, and emotional enhancements.
Technological Singularity
The technological singularity is a hypothetical point in the future when technological growth becomes uncontrollable and irreversible, resulting in unforeseeable changes to human civilization. This concept is closely associated with the development of superintelligent machines.
Life Extension
Life extension is a significant focus within transhumanism, aiming to extend human lifespan through various means such as cryonics, genetic engineering, and regenerative medicine.
Ethical Considerations
Transhumanism raises numerous ethical questions, including concerns about inequality, the potential for coercion, and the loss of human identity. Critics argue that enhancing human capabilities could lead to new forms of discrimination and exacerbate social inequalities.
Criticism
Critics of transhumanism often point to the potential risks of emerging technologies, including the loss of privacy, the potential for misuse, and the ethical implications of altering human nature. Some argue that transhumanism could lead to a devaluation of human life and dignity.
