MODULE 8 Flashcards
What are the interrelations involved in the relationship between technology and humanity?
Technology, science, society, and systems of rights of a universal nature
These elements are complex phenomena that interact with one another.
What does Tainter (1990) suggest is necessary for societies to sustain their populations?
Protection of certain resources such as food, energy, and natural resources
These resources are critical to prevent societal collapse.
What is the difference between global societal collapse and local societal collapse?
Global collapse affects human civilization as a whole; local collapse may not significantly impact humanity if other societies survive
This distinction highlights varying scales of impact.
What are the four families of scenarios considered for humanity’s future?
- Extinction
- Recurrent collapse
- Plateau
- Post-humanity
These scenarios explore different potential outcomes for society.
True or False: Bill Joy is an American computer scientist known for his essay, ‘Why the future doesn’t need us?’
True
He expresses concerns over the development of modern technologies.
Fill in the blank: The concept of _______ refers to a radical change in the human condition brought by technological or economic development.
Post-humanity
This term encapsulates the idea of significant advancements affecting human existence.
What are the ‘new pandora’s boxes’ mentioned in relation to future technologies?
- Genetics
- Nanotechnology
- Robotics
These fields are expected to bring transformative changes but also pose risks.
What potential change is predicted for the world economy by 2100?
The world would be almost 50 times richer than today
This projection suggests significant economic growth alongside population increase.
What technologies are mentioned as transforming the human experience?
- Smart contact lens
- Bionic limb
- Robot arm
These innovations illustrate how technology can enhance human capabilities.
According to Nick Bostrom (2004), what does post-humanity imply about cognitive capacities?
A large fraction of the population has cognitive capacities more than 2 standard deviations over the present human maximum
This suggests a significant enhancement of human intelligence.
What message does the essay ‘Why the future doesn’t need us?’ convey regarding technology?
Technology can be a double-edged sword, capable of both harm and protection
The essay warns of the risks associated with advanced technologies.
What is the predicted population of the world by 2050?
Over 9 billion
This increase will likely influence global resources and societal dynamics.
How is machine intelligence described in the context of future technology?
As a potential revolutionary technology
It may lead to significant advancements in various fields.
What is the relationship between human interests in technology and the future of technology?
The future of technology is based on how humans will use it
This emphasizes the role of human agency in technological development.
What consequence do drugs and neuro technologies have on users?
They can enable users to shape themselves into the kind of people they want to be
This includes modifying personality and emotional characteristics.
