As the year draws to a close, we find ourselves standing at a pivotal crossroads where our choices will define the trajectory of human civilization. One path leads us to the utopia envisioned in Star Trek, where technology uplifts humanity, cures disease, eradicates poverty, and expands the bounds of human potential. The other veers toward the dystopian chaos of Mad Max, where unchecked technological misuse plunges us into a fractured, hostile world. The advances of the past year —in Artificial Intelligence (AI), genetic engineering, robotics, warfare drones, and quantum computing—have brought these two futures within arm's reach. What we do next will determine which one we realize.
In my book, The Driver in the Driverless Car, I said that we face three fundamental questions about every new technology: Does it have the potential to benefit everyone equally? What are the risks and rewards? And does it promote autonomy or diminish it? These questions are not merely academic; the answers to them will shape the future we build and define the legacy we leave for generations to come.
This story is from the December 31, 2024 edition of Hindustan Times Bengaluru.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December 31, 2024 edition of Hindustan Times Bengaluru.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The world has always loved Indian beats
Jason Derulo is no stranger to India or Indian music. The American singer-songwriter and dancer has previously collaborated with rapper King on the party anthem Bumpa, with singer-songwriter Tesher on the hit single Jalebi Baby, and even took the stage to perform at the 2023 IPL.
Left knee strapped, Md Shami lets his pace talk at India nets
Master of swing and seam warms up for big battles
AI Challenge to Electoral Process
EC action on AI-generated content needs to be stringent. Mere labelling won't be enough
Trump 2.0: Prospects of global disruption
The world is watching nervously as the new President begins his second innings in Washington
Trial Run of Delhi-Srinagar Train Successful
The first successful trial run of the much-anticipated Delhi-Srinagar train service was completed on Sunday between the stations of Katra and Budgam in Jammu & Kashmir, paving the way for the Valley to be connected with the rest of the country via rail, officials aware of the matter said.
Amit Shah affirms PM's full support for Andhra
Union home minister Amit Shah on Sunday emphasised the support of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government for Andhra Pradesh, announcing that the Centre has approved projects totalling over ₹3 lakh crore for the state in just six months.
FPI Shorts Mount as Street Awaits Trump Flux
The change of guard in America looms large over India's stock market, with foreign portfolio investors (FPI) raising bearish bets close to record levels a day ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration as the 47th President.
India Open With Big Win Over Windies
Indian bowlers shot a clueless West Indies batters out for a measly 44 to set up a commanding nine-wicket win to begin their title defence on a resounding note in the women's U-19 World Cup here on Sunday.
NMC draft rules allow non-med grads to teach medical students
THE PROVISION SPARKED MIXED REACTIONS WITHIN THE MEDICAL FRATERNITY. SOME ARGUED THAT IT MAY DILUTE THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION
Ceasefire brings hope in Gaza, Israel
Palestinians burst into the streets to celebrate and return to the rubble of their bombed-out homes on Sunday after a ceasefire deal halted fighting in Gaza, and three female hostages freed by Hamas were reunited with their mothers inside Israel.