Technology, in its broadest sense, means “the way we do things” – which can be manual, mechanical, and electronic. What does the way we do things say about the evolution of knowledge, and of our perspectives and priorities, over time? Does our technology reveal the mindset of its inventors, and those who use it?
Technology is the product of human knowledge, applied to a particular purpose. The applications of our technology change over time, but why do they change and what are the causes of our inventions? Are there times when we adapt to our technology, and other times when our technology adapts to us? Who – or what – determines the future course of the way we do things, and how do the rest of us have a say in the matter? Join in this ongoing dialogue as we explore the frontiers of technology from the combined perspectives of its developers and its users.
Consumers don’t expect that clicking “Agree” to an online agreement with a food delivery service or cable network could result in the loss of some fundamental legal rights, and yet that’s what’s happening. We explore the often bewildering nature of lengthy user agreements that few can read or understand, and what’s being done (or not done) to protect online customers.
Predictive models of public opinion, when employed for legitimate purposes, help policymakers, researchers, and the public to understand societal needs. While electoral polls can provide insights to guide campaigns and policymakers with transparency, manipulation using AI has been, and can be, used to advance hidden agendas. Given quantum computing’s potential for calculating probabilities in vast datasets exponentially quicker, could the developing technology either improve or undermine the integrity of democratic processes?
Major financial players like Goldman Sachs are investing heavily in quantum computing to reduce risk in single trades, but could widespread adoption of quantum algorithms for calculating derivatives values cause “herding” and destabilize a market with over $700 trillion at risk? When algorithmic trading already dominates the markets, we explore the pros and cons of quantum computing’s speed in Monte Carlo simulations that drive current values, and the potential outcomes when unexpected events like the 2008 bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers rock the derivatives markets with years-long consequences.
Computing power is combining with gene editing technology to give us unprecedented control over genetics. The technologies are relatively new, making the long-term consequences of editing the human genome difficult to predict. We look at how both classical and quantum computing are being used to amplify our ability to manipulate genetics, and given their future potential ask whether standards against human experimentation will be sufficient to prevent a repeat of the serious legal and ethical violations that put a scientist in prison in 2019.
Quantum technology could significantly enhance the fight against deepfakes by improving detection and strengthening defenses, but it could also be used to create realistic holograms with the intention to deceive. We review the current state of deepfake technology, its risks of misinformation and manipulation, and emerging technologies and regulations to combat the widespread problem.
Major military powers are making significant investments in quantum technologies for battlefield advantages in computing probabilities and simulations, precision measurements of enemy assets and movements, and securing high-bandwidth communications. Quantum technologies will advance military automation and autonomous weapons systems, an objective that raises ethical issues for use of the developing power of quantum applications.
The Quantum Record is a non-profit journal of philosophy, science, technology, and time. The potential of the future is in the human mind and heart, and in the common ground that we all share on the road to tomorrow. Promoting reflection, discussion, and imagination, The Quantum Record highlights the good work of good people and aims to join many perspectives in shaping the best possible time to come. We would love to stay in touch with you, and add your voice to the dialogue.