Dear Readers,
Welcome to the first blog post with real content regarding our topic. We would like to discuss an idea presented in the film "Transcendence." For a brief introduction we have included the trailer below:
In a nutshell, the scientist Dr. Will Hyman (actor Jonny Depp) researches artificial intelligence. After Will was assaulted by an anti-technology terror group he learns that he will die within one month. In response to his impending death his wife's idea is to copy his personality into a computer ensuring that his consciousness will survive in the digital world in the form of an algorithm. They manage to transfer Will but concerns quickly develop as Will - or Will's algorithm - gets more and more independent and evolves rapidly. The algorithm becomes so mighty that it is even able to control physical human beings. Soon it is clear that Will is no longer communicating, but an independent program.
Let's not spoil the end of the story, however the film begs the question about how realistic this plot is. An algorithm that learns at an incredible velocity and gets out of control is not only scary but becoming more pervasive in mainstream media ("I, Robot;" the latest "Avengers;" etc.). If we consider the pace of technological development in the last few years, this appears to be quite realistic and perhaps, even a foreshadowing of what is to come.
What does this mean for human beings? On one hand - the increasing intellectual capacity of technology can be a major blessing for all of us. Technological advancement facilitates our lives and helps us to cope with a chaotic world and an everlasting information overload. On the other hand - it represents a huge challenge for us - the creators and users of these programs. We have to decide how much power we want to give to technology. We have to answer questions like: how much should it be able to impact our lives, our decisions or our social relations? If we are sure about these aspects, we have to take precautions to keep technology in its boundaries. It is our task to maintain control regardless of the outcome. But how?
Feel free to leave comments, questions or any feedback!
Best,
FuegoBot Team
