Gen Terminator Has Arrived!

Gen Terminator Has Arrived!

- Utsavi Jha

Cyborg technology is slowly but surely advancing and already making significant ripples in the form of bionic humans. While “technological singularity” might still be a phenomenon of the future for many, it is already being achieved by quite some individuals who are turning science-fiction into reality.

WHAT ARE CYBORGS?

The word Cyborg was originally used to refer to human beings with bodily functions controlled or assisted by technology in the form of an oxygen tank, pacemakers or insulin pump. “Cyborg”, which is a combination of words cybernetics and organism, was coined by Manfred Clynes to describe the need for mankind to artificially enhance biological functions in order to combat physical disabilities. Over a period of time, the term has found a much more general use that refers to a greater dependence of human beings on technology.

THE UNDERSTANDING OF AUGMENTATION

Human augmentation is not a novel phenomenon. Much on the contrary, trans humanism - the desire to perpetually and fundamentally keep transforming the human condition - has been existing for ages. Technical augmentation brings in great capabilities, so much so that many people go on to believe that it makes one superhuman. However, it is important to dispel that myth and stay grounded in scientific reality. On the flip side, some people come from the school of thought that when humans begin to augment themselves, they might lose control of themselves or become an natural.