We should embrace transhumanism; our survival could depend on it

The world is changing at a furious pace due to rapid technological advancements, especially those of artificial intelligence (AI). Enhancing human beings through new technology has become a topic of much conversation. Cases of genetic editing often dominate those debates, but the possibility of an enhanced Olympic Games or super soldiers also grab headlines. 

While some express concerns about the ethical implications and potential risks,

advocating for the preservation of “natural” humanity, there is a compelling case to be made for embracing technological enhancements beyond the means of just improving the human experience. With AI possibly set to pass the intelligence of humans in the next 20 years, the need to become a stronger, more resilient species has become markedly more important. Trying to keep up with AI via human enhancement may be one of the most important activities humans do in the future.

Such pursuits shouldn’t be frowned upon. Human beings have a long history of seeking ways to enhance their abilities. From the development of tools like the iron axe to the advent of medical advancements like anesthesia, humans have consistently pursued ways to overcome limitations and improve their quality of life. Technological enhancements – like bionic eyes that can use the internet – represent a natural progression in this trajectory, allowing us to augment not only our physical capabilities but also cognitive and emotional capacities.

In the past, one of the primary ethical arguments in favor of technological enhancement was the opportunity to overcome physical limitations for increased wellbeing. Advancements in prosthetics, for example, have enabled individuals with limb loss to regain mobility and lead normal lives. Other enhancement technologies, such as exoskeletons and endoskeletons, hold the promise of significantly expanding human physical capabilities, allowing individuals to surpass the limitations imposed by their biological bodies and be competitive with AI-driven robots.

Obviously, the quest to keep up with AI in the future is going to require much more than just improving our bodies. In an increasingly knowledge-driven society, improving our cognitive abilities is essential. Technological enhancements offer the potential to boost cognitive functions, such as memory, attention and problem-solving skills.

Devices like brainwave-reading implants could revolutionize education, allowing individuals to acquire and process information more efficiently. This, in turn, could lead to breakthroughs in scientific research, innovation and the development of solutions to complex global challenges — all things we will need to keep up with AI in the future.

The changing environment, including global warming, provide another reason to upgrade ourselves. Technological enhancements could provide us with the tools needed to thrive in an unpredictable world. From developing resistance to extreme temperatures to new drugs that allow us to survive on less food, these enhancements could empower us to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

Naturally, there are plenty of ethical considerations to human enhancement that must be considered, like what rules to follow, who gets enhanced and now much of our humanness can we stand to lose. Establishing ethical frameworks and regulations can help mitigate potential risks and ensure that enhancements are used for the greater good of humanity. Ethical considerations should focus on issues such as consent, equity in access to enhancements, and long-term consequences for both individuals and society.

They should also embrace morphological freedom, a transhumanist concept that insists that everyone should have the ability to improve their bodies how they wish, so long as it doesn’t hurt others. Another concern raised about human enhancement is the potential for creating disparities between enhanced and non-enhanced individuals. But if managed responsibly, technological advancements have the potential to close existing accessibility gaps. Ensuring that enhancements are affordable and accessible to diverse populations can contribute to a more equitable distribution of benefits across society.

Regardless of what side you fall on regarding implementing human enhancement, much of the debate may now be muted. That’s because, despite social and cultural criticisms around the world, the AI’s advance is likely not to be stopped. Some experts now agree that AI poses a potential threat to humanity. We can protect ourselves by emulating the way in which an athlete might approach the problem: by improving his ability and skills to remain formidable in competitions. 

From addressing physical limitations to boosting cognitive abilities and emotional intelligence, technological enhancements hold the potential to revolutionize the human experience and ensure that we stand the best chance to remain relevant against advancing AI. Embracing human enhancement is not just a choice but an imperative for the continued advancement of our species.

There is an urgent need to technologically enhance human beings. That need is grounded in our innate drive for progress and improvement; our survival could even be at stake. 

Zoltan Istvan writes and speaks about transhumanism, artificial intelligence and futurist issues. “Immortality or Bust,” an award-winning feature documentary about his work, can be found on Amazon Prime.