HUMAN AUGMENTATION: WHAT IS IT?

Human augmentation, sometimes referred to as human 2.0, is the concept of using technological enhancements to improve cognitive and physical human characteristics beyond what’s naturally possible. Advancements in fields like biotechnology, neuroscience, robotics and AI are converging to alter and elevate human performance in transformative ways – both therapeutically and recreationally.

Many current augmentation technologies aim to restore capabilities diminished due to illness, injury or age. Neural implants, bionic limbs controlled by the mind, and artificial organs represent examples currently in clinical testing phases. These developments give those with disabilities the potential to regain mobility or senses like sight or touch via embedded technology interfaces.

Beyond medical applications, some augmentations serve to heighten human traits and talents exceeding existing biological thresholds. For instance, biohackers use implants like RFID chips stored under the skin to unlock doors, share contact details or store medical data readable on smart devices. The US military also invests millions towards advanced grip strength exoskeleton gloves enabling soldiers to lift 200 pounds easily for equipment maneuvering applications.

Looking ahead, experts suggest human augmentation will become more extreme in redefining strength, speed, intelligence, longevity and quality of life. Elon Musk’s firm Neuralink is developing a brain chip allowing paralyzed patients to operate computing devices with thought alone while transmitting data wirelessly back to the user. Tests also show brain electrodes boost memory retention significantly for those implanted.

As enhancements integrate AI, automation and predictive analytics, proactive insights and decision-making support may emerge around how we communicate, navigate environments or process information based on contextual signals. Potential downsides around security risks, ethical dilemmas regarding access and effects on what society considers “natural” human must be weighed given the tech’s rapid pace.

While still nascent, exponential progress is expected in human augmentation this coming decade and beyond. Enthusiasts envision a future where biological limitations no longer constrain us via embedded neural processing units, gene editing tools, augmented reality lenses or exoskeletal frames carried like clothing. Detractors argue regulating certain avenues is necessary to avoid catastrophic misuse or unintended harms too. The one certainty is these capabilities will fundamentally transform our very sense of being human should their influence continue growing.