"Someday we'll switch on that machine, and we won't be able to switch it off." A quote from Professor Kevin Warwick
We've all seen the Terminator, the science-fiction movies where Arnie is the metal machine of death. From those scripts written 35 years ago, the futuristic blockbuster created questions. Questions that have been at the forefront of the scientific community since its inception, with many not wondering if but when would we be merging man with machine?
Being the Lead Professor of Cyberkenetics from Reading University and also being a world recognized scientist, Kevin Warwick is well known for his researches in robotics. He also holds the distinct honor of heading up one of the most advanced cyborg research projects in the world based in the UK. Prof. Warwick is certain that without upgrading, humans will someday fall behind the advances of the robots they're building – or worse.
In 1998, Kevin, became the world's first cyborg. Well, to be a little more accurate, he had a silicon chip transponder implanted into his forearm. From this first small upgrade, it allowed a computer to monitor Kevin as he negotiated his way around the Cybernetics Department, using a unique identifying signal, similar to that of aircraft transponders. He had the ability to operate doors, lights, heaters and other computers without lifting a finger.
In March 2002 a one hundred electrode array was surgically implanted into the median nerve fibers of the left arm of Professor Kevin Warwick. The two hour operation, was extremely complicated and involved a guiding tube inserted into a two inch incision made below the elbow joint, sliding the microelectrode system into this tube and interfacing the nerve fibers in the wrist. By having these electrodes implanted into his body he was able to connect with the university internet and control a robotic arm. Once he let his wife's brain waves take control of his body (she's also cybernetic).
With continuing advancements in Cyberkenetics, will the body upgrade be a common thing in our lifetime? Will we have chips in our arms that pay for our meals, eyes that can interface to our mobile phones, and the speaker in our ear to receive that call, but also understand any language. I for one am looking forward to the future.
Cheers Steemians.
Peace
SOURCE-https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Warwick
IMAGES - https://www.gettyimages.com.au/detail/news-photo/surgeons-operating-on-professor-kevin-warwick-at-oxfords-news-photo/830821392#/surgeons-operating-on-professor-kevin-warwick-at-oxfords-radcliffe-picture-id830821392
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/science/science-news/10888828/Captain-Cyborg-the-man-behind-the-controversial-Turing-Test-claims.html
Really informative thanks.
I think we are slowly being introduced to the idea of chips in the arm to pay for things and carry our id with us.
Whilst the technology is amazing, I personally don't like the thought of this.
As long as I maintained full control of my brain and body, I think I'm all for it.
Totally agree, if we could trust the powers that be to not take it further than that. But alas my issue is with that trust - history has shown us there are always governments, corporations or individuals that desire domination of the masses.
Exciting technology as it is, its not that inconvenient carrying around a bit of plastic or a phone to pay my way.
Thanks again for the article!
It's definitely interesting technology and will be very useful if used for good. We just need to make sure we maintain some checks and balances.
It's pretty unreal tech, when they can download data to a HD which I can access with my brain, I'm signing up.
Azamoths laws of robotics should and always be used when thinking of AI.
Yes, there could be a point where we transcend our physical bodies. Very controversial idea but it's not far away now.
BTW - Welcome to #teamaustralia I just noticed you on the intake list and I've volunteered to mentor you so if you need any help or advice let me know!
Thanks mate, I'm think I'm finding my feet well, been doing a lot of reading about best ways to survive being plankton/minnow.
Having help is always appreciated as there's been a few times I've been scratching my head in frustration from not being able to find answers.
Thanks again mate
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If this is the future then count me out. I'll stay nice, and safe, and free from our AI overlords under my rock.