Human evolution has always been driven by our tools, and computer technology is the most impactful tool humans have ever invented. Today, digital technology drives everything from PCs to mobile phones, from thermostats to automobiles. We search the Web for a wide variety of information, entertainment, and services. Rapidly growing computer power drives breakthrough technology such as Artificial Intelligence, with more to come.
That increasing power has created a resulting trend of connecting with computers using human language--"talking to computers"--with smartphone "personal assistants" leading this trend. This conversational connection to growing computer power will accelerate a human-computer partnership that could even impact what it means to be human. This SDG examines the full impact of these trends, including computers essentially becoming workers supporting a growing population beyond retirement age.
1. Introduction/Overview: The increasing role of computers in our lives is an important trend. One key trend is the use of human language in dealing with computers, allowing a tight conversational connection. This topic covers the impact of these major trends, arguing that a human-computer partnership can in the long run even change what it means to be human.
2. Computer Power: Computer power is expanding at an increasing rate due to factors beyond "Moore's Law" of increasing chip complexity.
3. Artificial Intelligence: AI is often hyped to the point it is claimed to be a threat to humanity. What is the reality?
4. Robots: Robots add movement to AI. What is the current reality and how will it evolve?
5. Computers and Human Language: "Talking to computers" is the closest connection to the human brain without implanting wires in the brain. How intuitive can this connection become?
6. Digital Assistants: Digital assistants like Apple's Siri and Amazon Alexa are a specific embodiment of talking to computers. Digital assistants try to be your partner in everything, from answering your questions to controlling connected devices in your home.
7. The Brain: The nature of the human brain and how it relates to AI technology.
8. Human-Computer Partnerships: Computers can expand the abilities of our brain if they are always available through mobile devices such as smartphones.
9. Ethics in Computer Technology: Most of our tools can be misused, and computers and digital assistants are no exception. What are ethical uses of expanding computer power.
10. Economics: Computers and AI are not taking jobs, they are substituting for a shortage of workers.
11. Education: Digital assistants can aid in early education and in making educational systems more consistent.
12. Health and Bioscience: How is conversational technology improving healthcare?
13. The Future: What do these fundamental trends portend for the future--a few speculations.
14. The Bottom Line: Summary and discussion of earlier major topics.
Evolution Continues: A Human-Computer Partnership, William Meisel, Mindstir Media, 2022.