by I did a brief commentary on a recent article feature “futurist and Google exec Ray Kurzweil’s” latest comments around the Singularity topic — in this case specifically talking about chip implants into people.
As is always the case, more was said in the interview than broadcast. For instance, the first question was around whether “this guy” is crazy. We futurists have been immersed in the Singularity for so long, it can be easy to forget that it is still news to most. I spent some time basically vouching for Kurzweil, and then explaining that the main criticism is that he presents only one scenario, and a very optimistic one at that. I did add that in fairness, he makes a strong argument for his scenario and is willing to take on all comers who might object.
It was kind of funny that the interviewer made the point about the chip taking over the brain and I just rephrased it and said it was possible (I added another little spiel on alternative futures and possibilities that was, of course, left out). And for what it’s worth, I said we were on the up-slope (not the down-slope) regarding developments in robotics.
I think in a small way, doing these kinds of interviews helps move some people a bit forward into the future. When we vouch for what may seem “crazy,” we at least open some people’s minds a bit. In doing so, perhaps futurists take a little bit of a credibility hit. I net out that I try to be comfortable with whatever I say, even if it can be portrayed in a way that may push me a bit “out there,” e.g., “I would put a chip in my head.” Well, I would, so….
This issue is part of why I’m so interested in the “futurists in media” research we are starting at the University of Houston Foresight program. Just how are we being covered….or not. More on that later. Andy Hine
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