[ExI] The Singularity is Nearer

[BillK]

On Tue, 30 Jul 2024 at 10:23, efc--- via extropy-chat <
extropy-chat at lists.extropy.org> wrote:

> What about Bostrom and Harari?
> Could you elaborate a bit on those two?

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>


I'll have a go!  :)
I thought Bostrom was a well-known transhumanist, but I haven't heard of
Harani.
So I asked Perplexity AI, which uses a web search engine, for an opinion.
The answer was a 'yes' for Bostrom, but 'very doubtful' about Harani.
BillK


Perplexity AI -

Yes, Nick Bostrom is a prominent transhumanist. He is widely recognized for
his extensive work and advocacy in the field of transhumanism. Here are
some key points that illustrate his involvement and contributions:

1. **Founding of Transhumanist Organizations**: Bostrom co-founded the
World Transhumanist Association (now known as Humanity+) in 1998, which is
a clear indication of his commitment to the transhumanist movement[3].

2. **Philosophical Contributions**: Bostrom has written extensively on
transhumanist topics, including human enhancement, superintelligence, and
existential risks. His works, such as "Transhumanist Values" and
"Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies," outline his vision of
using technology to radically extend human capabilities and address
potential future risks[2][3].

3. **Core Transhumanist Beliefs**: Bostrom's philosophy emphasizes the
potential for technology to transform the human condition. He advocates for
the ethical use of science and technology to enhance human intellectual,
physical, and emotional capacities, and to extend the human lifespan[2][4].

4. **Ethical and Existential Considerations**: Bostrom's work also delves
into the ethical implications of human enhancement and the potential risks
associated with advanced technologies. He promotes a proactive approach to
technology policy to mitigate existential risks and maximize the benefits
of technological advancements[3][4].

In summary, Nick Bostrom is indeed a transhumanist, deeply involved in both
the theoretical and practical aspects of the movement. His contributions
have significantly shaped the discourse on human enhancement and the future
of humanity.

------------------

Yuval Noah Harari's relationship with transhumanism is complex and nuanced.
While he explores transhumanist themes in his work, particularly in his
book "Homo Deus," it would be inaccurate to label him simply as a
transhumanist.

Harari's approach to transhumanism can be characterized as follows:

1. **Exploration of ideas**: Harari extensively discusses transhumanist
concepts in his writings, such as the potential for humans to overcome
biological limitations, achieve immortality, and upgrade themselves into
"gods"[1][2]. However, he presents these ideas more as potential future
scenarios rather than personal advocacy.

2. **Critical analysis**: While exploring transhumanist themes, Harari
often takes a detached, historical perspective. He examines these ideas
critically, considering both their potential benefits and drawbacks[2]. He
doesn't necessarily endorse transhumanism but rather analyzes it as a
significant trend that may shape our future.

3. **Philosophical implications**: Harari delves into the philosophical and
ethical implications of transhumanist technologies. He discusses how such
advancements might challenge traditional notions of humanity,
consciousness, and free will[3].

4. **Societal impact**: Harari considers the broader societal implications
of transhumanist technologies, including their potential to exacerbate
inequality and disrupt existing social structures[2].

5. **Skepticism**: Despite exploring transhumanist ideas, Harari maintains
a degree of skepticism about some of its more extreme claims. For instance,
he expresses doubt about the immediate feasibility of achieving
immortality[2].

It's worth noting that Harari's work has been criticized by some for
potentially oversimplifying complex scientific concepts and making sweeping
generalizations[4]. His ideas have also been interpreted differently by
various readers, with some viewing him as a proponent of transhumanism and
others as a critic[3].

In conclusion, while Harari engages deeply with transhumanist concepts, it
would be an oversimplification to label him as a transhumanist. His
approach is more that of a historian and philosopher examining potential
future trends and their implications, rather than an advocate for a
particular ideology. Harari's work serves more to stimulate discussion
about these ideas and their potential consequences rather than to promote a
transhumanist agenda.
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