Ship of Theseus — Symbiosis of Man and Computer

Exploring the Symbiosis of Human and Machine

In an age of rapid technological advancement, the line between human and machine is increasingly blurred. Recent innovations in brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and artificial intelligence (AI) are pushing the boundaries of human capability, sparking debates that extend beyond the realm of science fiction. In "Das Schiff des Theseus — Symbiose von Mensch und Rechenmaschine", I explore this complex relationship, raising a fundamental question: What truly defines us as human?

The concept of the "Mechanically Extended Man" begins with tools that enhance our physical and cognitive abilities, while the "Humanly Extended Machine" flips this notion, as machines start to operate semi-autonomously. However, the core question I address is whether these advancements, particularly invasive technologies like Neuralink, mark the beginning of a new era where humans and machines co-evolve—or whether they risk eroding what makes us uniquely human.

I delve into how these technologies might reshape our identities, invoking the "Ship of Theseus" paradox: If humanity continuously upgrades and replaces its components, does it remain the same? As the transhumanist vision advances, so too does the debate over whether this transformation will empower or diminish us. The future depends on how society navigates the use of such groundbreaking innovations while safeguarding human integrity.

The work can be downloaded here.