Runnaway Train

[bobcat]

Many years ago Isaac Asimov pointed out that science gathers knowledge faster than society gathers wisdom.
In today's world with A.I., driverless cars, the Metaverse, cloning, and turning our lives over to algorithms that feed us information, the questions of "Should we?" or "What could go wrong?" seem to be left by the roadside.
It reminded me of a light hearted question I once pondered: That being: "If you found yourself in a sea of wine, would you drink or swim?"
Don't get me wrong, I love science and technology, but it seems no one is piloting this vessel and we are left in that same sort of predicament.
Your thoughts?

 

[oldaunt]

Swim. I'm alcohol intolerant. Not real fond of most tech either.

 

[fuzzybuddy]

Technology updates aren't new. There was a time when the wheel was experimental technology. From 1880 to 1910, we went from horse and buggies to radio, electric lights, automobiles, planes, skyscrapers, subways, etc., and we muddled through. It's not the technology, which is dangerous; but it's use for dark purposes.

 

[bobcat]

Yes

Technology updates aren't new. There was a time when the wheel was experimental technology. From 1880 to 1910, we went from horse and buggies to radio, electric lights, automobiles, planes, skyscrapers, subways, etc., and we muddled through. It's not the technology, which is dangerous; but it's use for dark purposes.

Yes, that's exactly what I was mentioning. I'm a big fan of science and technology, it's just that I feel we keep producing more chickens, but no one is guarding the hen house. The foxes are free to do whatever they want with the new technology. You can find out how to build a bomb and even a nuclear device online. I believe in free speech, but shouldn't that be something that's regulated. I dunno ... Maybe I'm just a dinosaur that doesn't belong in today's world.

 

[chic]

I will try to enjoy myself but be very aware that unseen tech forces may have malevolent intent. Tech itself does nothing but those who gain from it do. Proceed with caution.

 

[bobcat]

I will try to enjoy myself but be very aware that unseen tech forces may have malevolent intent. Tech itself does nothing but those who gain from it do. Proceed with caution.

Agreed. Being vigilant, informed, and protective seems to have been a wise method all along the way. Being a skeptic is always safest.

 

[Gaer]

Seems to be the age of high-tech to the demise of spirituality.
Strict regulations on AI robotic technology are imperative, IMO.
I agree with you Bobcat. "Who's piloting this vessel?"

 

[Muskrat]

Somehow…I am not overly worried. Sure there are things that can go wrong….but just as many that can go right.

 

[Alligatorob]

it seems no one is piloting this vessel

Nope, never has been, never will be. We have too much independence for that, and I doubt a safe "pilot" could be found. The times all powerful pilots have emerged usually turned out badly. Things evolve with time, changing not for the better or worse, just changing. We have to make the best of it we can, and so far we have accomplished an awful lot, even if we are not completely happy with where we are today.

Technology updates aren't new. There was a time when the wheel was experimental technology. From 1880 to 1910, we went from horse and buggies to radio, electric lights, automobiles, planes, skyscrapers, subways, etc., and we muddled through. It's not the technology, which is dangerous; but it's use for dark purposes.

Good point!

If you found yourself in a sea of wine, would you drink or swim?

I think I'd have a drink or two, but not enough to keep me from being able to swim to shore. Then I'd fill a few bottles for later.

 

[davey]

i think there is a biblical verse in the first few chapters of the OT - sorta around the Adam and Eve period and God is reported as saying as he/she started forming humans - " and I give you free will".............can't find it at the mo maybe Gary O can help. But if this is the case don't ya think that this then implies we may in fact at some point stuff it all up - like climate change discussions seem to be indicating?

 

[Alligatorob]

Many years ago Isaac Asimov pointed out that science gathers knowledge faster than society gathers wisdom.

I think that has always been true, nothing new.

Science is advanced by individuals or small groups societal wisdom can only catch up after the results of that science are somehow demonstrated to the masses. Happens slowly, if at all.

 

[bobcat]

Nope, never has been, never will be. We have too much independence for that, and I doubt a safe "pilot" could be found. The times all powerful pilots have emerged usually turned out badly. Things evolve with time, changing not for the better or worse, just changing. We have to make the best of it we can, and so far we have accomplished an awful lot, even if we are not completely happy with where we are today.

Good point!

I think I'd have a drink or two, but not enough to keep me from being able to swim to shore. Then I'd fill a few bottles for later.

Lol .... There you go. Who says you can't take it with you.