The Path to Singularity: How Technology Will Challenge the Future of Humanity

by J. Craig Wheeler, Neil deGrasse Tyson (Foreword by)

Overview

In a rapidly changing world, are we on the brink of creating technology that outpaces our ability to control it?

Astrophysicist J. Craig Wheeler, former president of the American Astronomical Society, takes a critical look at the technological advances shaping our future. From artificial intelligence to genetic engineering, Wheeler explores how these innovations are interconnected and the potential they hold for humanity's evolution. He warns of a future where autonomous machines outsmart us and genetic modifications challenge our very essence. With thought-provoking insights into the ethical dilemmas we face, Wheeler stresses the importance of staying informed and proactive.

Key Questions Raised by Wheeler:

• Will there be jobs for those willing to work in a future dominated by automation?
• How might social media companies manipulate our decisions, potentially stripping us of free will?
• Could AI influence or even dictate our voting behaviors?
• If widespread mental connectivity becomes a reality, could we see the emergence of a collective consciousness that erases individuality?
• Have we exhausted Earth's resources, and is population control necessary?
• What implications arise if we solve aging? How will society adapt to the challenges of perpetual youth?
• What are the realistic prospects of migrating to space as Earth becomes increasingly inhospitable?

Our decisions today will determine if we control technology or if it controls us. Through an engaging narrative, Wheeler not only outlines the challenges but also offers practical advice on how we can retain control over our technological destiny.

Includes a Foreword by Neil DeGrasse Tyson.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781493085446
Publisher:	Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc.
Publication date:	11/19/2024
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	384
File size:	991 KB

About the Author

John Craig Wheeler is an American astronomer. He is the Samuel T. and Fern Yanagisawa Regents Professor of Astronomy at the University of Texas at Austin. He is known for his research on supernovae. He is a past president of the American Astronomical Society, a Fellow of that society, and a Fellow of the American Physical Society. He was one of the original signatures of the infamous letter calling for a temporary pause of work on AI in March, 2023. Over a thousand leader in tech signed this letter including Elon Musk.

Editorial Reviews

Dr. Craig Wheeler explores the boundless potential and peril of exponentially advancing technologies including computers, AI, robotics, EVs, gene editing, spaceflight, and more in an approachable and compelling way to educate, caution, and inspire. Drawing on decades of scientific and technological expertise, Wheeler navigates the complex landscape of progress, revealing both the opportunities and the dangers that lie ahead. This timely and essential book empowers readers to grasp the intricacies of our rapidly evolving world and become proactive participants in shaping our future.

Jay Boisseau

Accessible to the casual reader and deeply engaging for the expert, Craig Wheeler marvelously captures the knowledge tsunami that has led to modern robotics and AI and the ways they will exponentially transform our society. The Path to Singularity gives entree into the mind of scientists and roboticists as we grapple with these new emerging forms of intelligence. Through its coverage of the essential history, insights, and questions of AI, this book is sure to become required reading for my students. I can think of no better book to give students the exponential mindset needed to think beyond the ideas of right now and understand the space of possible futures that will have far-reaching societal impact.

Chad Jenkins

By the nature of the job, astronomers think big thoughts about immense spans of space and time. J. Craig Wheeler, one of the top astronomers of his generation, thinks big thoughts about everything, with deep insight and crystal clarity. It’s all on display in this wonderfully wide-ranging and terrifically accessible book about science, technology, and the future of humanity. Everybody should read it!

John P. Holdren

Wheeler takes the reader on an expansive exploration of the intersection of technology and humanity, and avoids Bohr’s dilemma that “it is difficult to make predictions, especially about the future.” Rather, Wheeler prepares the reader to be aware of the rapid changes that are now on-going, leading the reader to understand that it would be unwise not to think about this future. A highly informative and unsettling book.

Brian Schmidt

This fine book is timely and should be widely read. Advanced technology– bio, cyber and AI–can be our salvation; it can also trigger devastation that cascades globally. The footprint of the world's growing and more demanding population could change the climate and devastate our environment. It's crucial that all citizens, mindful of these global dangers, campaign to ensure a safer world. This comprehensive, clear and authoritative book is just what's needed to raise awareness of these issues.

Martin Rees