"The pace of progress in artificial intelligence is incredibly fast. Unless you have direct exposure to groups like DeepMind, you have no idea how fast, it is growing at a pace close to exponential."
— Elon Musk, during a 2017 talk on brain–machine interfaces (source: Neuralink presentation, 2017)
Truth is, Evolution isn't over. It might seem like we've reached a pinnacle because we as humans have lived a long time and have also advanced a lot in technology, but I tell you, we're still changing physically, mentally, socially, and technologically.
I have pondered a few times and even discussed with my dad about an age when the use of microchips embedded in humans would be a norm. These implanted microchips would control and know everything about everyone. Having that discussion with my dad was scary because this would mean less privacy, security, and even potential misuse of the data collected. I'm in awe because it's a situation that could happen sooner than expected, especially with the exponential rise of technology.
Let's Explore some Potential uses of Human Microchip Implants.
Identification and Access: Microchips could replace keys and passwords for accessing buildings, your gadgets, etc. Imagine a world where nobody needs to take keys around to open their doors or even give a formal identification to your boss or anyone because you already have a unique ID in your microchip to seamlessly pass that information. This reminds me of the animation. "Star Wars: The Clone Wars"
The clones had chips in their heads; they were identified with unique numbers. It made it impossible for them to even commit a crime.Payment System: Imagine being able to make payment by just waving your hands. There might not even be a need to carry cash around anymore. It would exponentially reduce stealing since there isn't any money around to even steal in the first place. Payments could be done securely and fast. Even delivery would be fast and easier because your address information is also stored in the chips.
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Health Information: I have been to several hospitals in Nigeria. Let's talk about the one in Unilag. At some point, I stopped going there because it takes the nurses forever to find patients files. I end up staying hours before getting medical attention because it takes a long time to find my patient file. Imagine a world where a microchip already knows your health history; it could even sense what's troubling you and give a diagnosis. It could revolutionize the pace of getting medical attention.
Concerns and Risks
Privacy: Data breaches would be catastrophic. Unauthorized access to personal could give room for blackmail and theft. Additionally, surveillance would be really uncomfortable for a lot of people.
Health Risk: Having a metallic object in the body raises concerns. What if it blocks arteries, it clogs lungs, or it corrodes and leads to infection or various tissue reactions in the body?
Should We Be Concerned About Evolution 🧬
My take is that we don't need to stop change. We just need to stay woke to what's changing, ask the right questions, and ensure we're evolving in a way that keeps humanity at the center.
Thank you for reading ♥
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Image Source: https://www.starwars.com/news/8-notable-clone-troopers-from-star-wars-the-clone-wars
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