From: J. R. Molloy (jr@shasta.com)
Date: Thu Nov 15 2001 - 05:39:48 MST
From: "Anders Sandberg" <asa@nada.kth.se>
> ignoring them is like ignoring aerodynamics while building a space
> shuttle.
Yes, if we intend to shuttle back and forth between human and transhuman, or
if we plan to return to human stasis after transcending it, then we need to
dwell on strictly human issues. If, instead, we commit to a phase transition
in which no regression occurs, then we need to focus on transhuman issues, and
especially on how to leave entirely human ones. Once we attain transhuman
levels, these issues will necessarily look quite different to us.
Consequently, it's not up to us to decide these matters... It is up to our
transhuman selves to decide. By analogy, adults decide how to live their own
lives, not the children that they used to be.
--- --- --- --- ---
Useless hypotheses, etc.:
consciousness, phlogiston, philosophy, vitalism, mind, free will, qualia,
analog computing, cultural relativism, GAC, Cyc, Eliza, cryonics, individual
uniqueness, ego, human values, scientific relinquishment, malevolent AI,
non-sensory experience
We move into a better future in proportion as science displaces superstition.
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