Future Superhuman: Our transhuman lives in a make-or-break century

In her book "Superhuman: How Technology Is Making Us Humanly Better, Smarter, and More Powerful," Elise Bohan explores the potential consequences of emerging technologies on human life, including automation, life extension, AI, and the future of human relationships. She suggests that we need to embrace these technologies to safeguard our future, but also considers the challenges and risks they pose.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 01 May 2022
Publisher: NewSouth Publishing

In a thought-provoking and groundbreaking essay, Elise Bohan presents a compelling argument that we are on the precipice of a transformative era, one that holds the potential for extraordinary advancements or, if mishandled, the ultimate demise of human civilization. The challenges we face are daunting, ranging from the catastrophic consequences of global warming to the grave risks associated with nuclear weapons, novel and bioengineered pathogens, and the potentially malevolent influence of unaligned AI. However, Bohan believes that there is a way out of this existential crisis, and it lies in the embrace of technology.

To safeguard our future, we will need to develop and harness advanced technologies that can mitigate these threats. This may involve the invention and integration of new technologies, some of which may even merge with human beings. The implications of this shift are profound, and Bohan delves into a range of topics that will shape our lives in the 21st century.

One of the central themes of her essay is the impact of automation on jobs, livelihoods, and dating and mating careers. As machines become increasingly capable and efficient, they are likely to replace human workers in many industries, leading to significant job losses and economic disruption. Bohan explores the potential consequences of this shift, including the erosion of social safety nets, the rise of inequality, and the need for new forms of education and training to adapt to the changing job market.

Another important aspect of Bohan's essay is the extension of the human lifespan through life-extension technologies. As medical science advances, we may be able to prolong our lives beyond their natural expiration date, granting us additional years of productivity and fulfillment. Bohan examines the ethical and social implications of this phenomenon, including questions about the nature of aging, the distribution of resources, and the potential impact on human relationships.

She also considers the rise of AI friends and lovers, the potential for digital minds to transcend physical bodies, and the implications of this shift on human identity and relationships. Bohan raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of consciousness, the boundaries of human empathy, and the potential for technology to enhance or diminish our human experiences.

Furthermore, Bohan explores the liberation of women from pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding, as well as the impending global baby-bust. With the advent of new reproductive technologies, women may have more control over their reproductive lives, allowing them to pursue careers, education, and personal goals without the constraints of biological motherhood. However, this shift also raises concerns about the impact on traditional family structures, the role of men in society, and the potential for social and economic inequality.

In conclusion, Elise Bohan's essay is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the future of human civilization. Through her original and insightful prose, she presents a compelling argument that we are at a critical juncture, and the choices we make today will have profound consequences for generations to come. By embracing technology and exploring the possibilities it offers, we can mitigate the risks posed by our existential crises and create a brighter and more prosperous future for all. However, this journey will require us to be bold, innovative, and willing to confront the challenges that lie ahead.

Dimension: 210 x 135 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781742236759