Technological Change – are we preparing?

I haven’t blogged for a little while but thought you might find the following stories more interesting than anything I might have to say. The common thread running through these stories is the rapid advancement of technology. Technological advancement, particularly in the areas of robotics, artificial intelligence, nanotechnology and genetics, is creating the potential for enormous good for humans and our planet. Positive benefits for people with disabilities are limitless. The story about the navigation tool for people with vision impairments is just a small example. Many believe that within twenty years, the blind will literally see.

The robotic bird story is just a small example of how robotics technology is advancing at a rate that far exceeds expectations just ten years ago. Watch the “bird” carefully. I was amazed at the beauty of its short flight – mimicking the beauty and control of those creatures lucky enough to soar.

The third story about Turing’s question is just one of the ethical and practical questions raised by advancing technology. Apart from... read more