Robotics & Body Augmentation are the next-level step up in defining our growing cybernetic capacities. Each and every day brings new breakthroughs in linking our own neural pathways to robotic exteriors. The future is now.
Elevated Individualism: Beyond Basic BioHacks
Growing up as a kid I was always fascinated by how quickly Luke Skywalker (in Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back) took to his newly acquired robotic hand after losing it to Darth Vader (#CommissionsEarned).
I always wondered if that were possible and if so, would I see it in my lifetime. Growing up with Star Wars gave me a sense of wonder tied to technology. I’m beyond overwhelmed to say that that wonder is now a reality.
Today, we can create a host of new biologically-relevant products with the use of 3D printers. They can reproduce prosthetics for limbs, biological tissues including blood vessels, and even reproduce the heart of an infant to pre-plan a surgery!
The next step is to link our neural networks, our brains, to the technology we create. It is happening now. Neuralink Corporation, founded by Elon Musk+, is actively engaged in creating and advancing these “implantable brain-machine interfaces.”
Image by Enrique Meseguer from Pixabay
Advancement in human evolution no doubt now includes the interface between flesh and machine. How we choose to engage that public conversation will ultimately have a large impact on the debate. As tech companies move forward we need to inform ourselves, and look forward to the integration of this tech to advance our own capabilities, if for no other reason, just to keep up!