[ExI] Bodies

[Natasha Vita-More]

The discussion on "bodies" leaves a lot to be desired.  Since this is the
Extropy list, in a world of Extropy, there are a few crucial thinking tools
which foster the extent of a system's intelligence, information, order,
vitality and capacity for improvement.
http://www.extropy.org/principles.htm  

The human is in a state of transition, leading toward a critical
transformation. In the future the single-life form of human physiology will
be a thing of the past.  Until then, we have a body and it is keeping us
alive. Nevertheless, there are alternatives to the single-life form
physiology and there are alternatives to a single upload existence.  The
future is about diversity and not one specific vehicle for personal
existence, whether that be biological lifes, a bio-synthetic lifes, or an
artificial lifes.

On this list, to argue whether or not there will be synthetic existence is
naïve.  The more apt conversation ought to concern methodologies in gaining
momentum on these processes.  To argue whether or not there will be whole
brain emulation (upload) is more provoking and even some of the brightest
thinkers are not sold on this notion.  (I was just a panelist on "AI" at the
SXSWi with http://my.sxsw.com/e/403  Doug Lenat, Bart Selman and Peter
Stone, Mason Hale. Listening to the audience reaction (a packed conference
room at the Hilton), it was very evident that the concept of a "Metabrain"
(which is a vital part of Primo Posthuman
http://www.kurzweilai.net/meme/frame.html?main=/articles/art0405.html ) was
*applauded* by the audience.) And with the excitement came all the issue
surrounding metabrain and the whole brain emulation upload, which share some
identifiable links.

Discussions on this list ought to revolve around the research, the methods,
the funding, the socio-political issues, the costs, the pros and cons, etc.
and not get boggled down by whether or not someone believes either a
metabrain or upload will or will not come about.  Both are being researched
and there is money funding it.  The metabrain is easier to swallow, to be
sure, but the whole brain emulation is of great interest to many.

Natasha