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.
With Neuralink planning to implant a computer interface in a human brain in 2023, we wonder what the technology will mean to the future of human interactions and experience. With so much of the brain’s function still unknown, and many ethical issues to address, maybe the biggest question – if you were receiving an implant – would be “Where do I end and where does the machine begin?”
Will we become the servants of our technology or will it serve us? The two choices we face with the tremendous creative and destructive power of today’s technology will shape the reality of tomorrow. The future hangs in the balance of our imagination.
Technology is gaining the ability to simulate human speech and writing with remarkably realistic results. What are the benefits and dangers of such power, and how will it be controlled?
Many have questioned the expense of time, effort, and money on space exploration. Why, since ancient times, have humans felt a need and desire to explore the cosmos? Is our attempt to imagine the greatest of all probabilities and unlock the secrets of time at the core of the philosophy of space exploration?
The history of human technology tells the story of us, and provides a window onto our future. The technological tools we develop at any time reflect our mindset of need and desire that drive invention. As we look back at the evolution of our technology and the perceptions that led to its present shape, what choices do we see for our future direction? Explore our feature and the ideals of Dr. Ursula Franklin for holistic technology that can benefit us all.
Rapid advances in science and technology make the potential of the future, and the value of time, more unpredictable now than ever before. What ultimately drives the value of time, if not belief in the future? We have the capacity to shape that future, for better or for worse, with the power of today’s technology.
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.