The Specter of Transhumanism
"There is a specter that ought to be haunting the world: the specter of transhumanism. Transhumanism is the philosophical thesis that we ought to employ technology in the near term for the purpose of attempting to perfect ourselves. Even those not friendly to transhumanism ought to pay heed, for within the lifetime of most of those alive today humanity will, in all likelihood, possess the technology to radically reengineer humans, to create new and better persons. The philosophical, political and social ramifications of transhumanism are staggering indeed—arguably, they are unprecedented in human history. Moreover, the fact that the technologies necessary for such experiments are imminent—most expert opinion clusters around the years 2020 to 2050—means that transhumanism ought to be on everyone’s lips. It is no exaggeration to say that transhumanist topics ought to be the headline news every evening on television and on the front page of every morning newspaper. We stand at the crucial juncture in human history."
(from "What is Transhumanism?" by Mark Walker)
In recognition of the crucial place in history at which we stand, the World Transhumanist Association has issued a concise list of seven points, known as the Transhumanist Declaration:
Humanity will be radically changed by technology in the future. We foresee the feasibility of redesigning the human condition, including such parameters as the inevitability of aging, limitations on human and artificial intellects, unchosen psychology, suffering, and our confinement to the planet earth.
Systematic research should be put into understanding these coming developments and their long-term consequences.
Transhumanists think that by being generally open and embracing of new technology we have a better chance of turning it to our advantage than if we try to ban or prohibit it.
Transhumanists advocate the moral right for those who so wish to use technology to extend their mental and physical (including reproductive) capacities and to improve their control over their own lives. We seek personal growth beyond our current biological limitations.
In planning for the future, it is mandatory to take into account the prospect of dramatic progress in technological capabilities. It would be tragic if the potential benefits failed to materialize because of technophobia and unnecessary prohibitions. On the other hand, it would also be tragic if intelligent life went extinct because of some disaster or war involving advanced technologies.
We need to create forums where people can rationally debate what needs to be done, and a social order where responsible decisions can be implemented.
Transhumanism advocates the well-being of all sentience (whether in artificial intellects, humans, posthumans, or non-human animals) and encompasses many principles of modern humanism. Transhumanism does not support any particular party, politician or political platform.
The key points to be emphasized here are:
Humanity will be changed [1]
We face both great benefits and huge risks [5]
Research [2], openness [3], and rational debate [6] are the keys to navigating a safe course
It is imperative that we do not make the mistake of underestimating the dangers. They are real and serious and have the potential to affect every one of us. As a friend recently said, "It's not like we're just talking about having new technologies...we're going to become technology!"
On the other hand, it would be an equally dreadful mistake to become overcautious and thereby prevent millions of people from receiving cures for disease, improved nutrition, access to information, or a way out of poverty.
Transhumanists do not claim to have all the answers—although sometimes it may seem that way! We urgently seek intelligent dialogue, freedom for research, and concerted effort to alleviate suffering and promote happiness.
Big changes are coming our way, and they are coming fast. Only by taking action now can we avert the greatest dangers and receive the greatest benefits.