Singularity is defined as the point at which a function reaches an infinite value. In humans this point is approaching for our information and technology. In the TED talk on Memes and “temes” Susan Blackmore talks about memetics and how information has an evolutionary algorithm the same way organic matter does. The pessimistic view of the future of humanity sheds an important light on how our technology isn’t always the positive that we think it is. While most people view technology as a way to improve our existence, it could actually cause the downfall of humans. It poses the question of whether or not we should be putting time and research into technology that could potentially cause us harm.
The idea of a perfect memory is an example of this. In class we talked about how no one wants perfect memory but it seems to be inevitable. Unfortunately most people don’t think critically about the development of technology beyond the immediate benefits. The idea of forgetting is viewed in a negative light most of the time but really it’s a necessary part of our existence. The personification of information helps understand how our development of new technology isn’t always positive. We need to keep thinking critically about new technology beyond just whether or not we can create something. Discussions need to be held in order to determine if we are willing to foot the costs.