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.
As the brain is essential to our survival, mental wellbeing deserves high ranking in our technological priorities. Threats to the brain’s functioning include heat and climate change, as well as online emotional triggers that polarize opinions and beliefs. When the threats are understood, technology holds great potential to advance the human mind.
While AI continues to transform many aspects of human life, the widespread collection, use, and brokering of personal data, driven by advertising and machine learning, pose significant risks that include privacy, foreign influence, and bias. The extent of data collected, often without the user’s knowledge, highlights the need for ethical guidelines and regulatory measures in the development and use of AI.
As AI becomes ingrained in our lives, we’re compelled to question whether it has the power to supersede our very agency, influencing our decisions, choices, behaviour, and the very fabric of our memories—the vital threads that guide us through life.
Defending Earth against asteroid strikes is a public priority that will require global mobilization of citizen scientists led by organizations like the B612 Foundation. Co-founder and Apollo 9 astronaut Rusty Schweickart helped prove, in 1969, how much progress is possible in a short seven years with citizen contributions to the Moon landing effort launched by President Kennedy in 1962.
The scientific research on climate change is robust and presents alarming perspectives for the survival of our species. Several international organizations have been making efforts to encourage a change in our approach toward climate change. While countries have been slower than expected in taking action, there is optimism with the upcoming COP28 meeting.
Since receiving citizenship from Saudi Arabia in 2017, for over five years Sophia has been the world’s first-ever robot citizen. As the technology of humanoid machines and AI advances, so must our legislation and perhaps even our ethical reasoning. We survey the latest developments in global AI regulations.
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.