538: Transhumanism part 2 and the dark side of artificial intelligence

The boys drink and review 13 Eye Witness Brews then head back into the topic of transhumanism. (See episode 535.)

One of the problems the transhumanist agenda needs to address is the connection between the body and the mind. Is "the mind" something that can -- even in principle -- be uploaded to a computer? Or does it have to have a body.

Does the mind = the brain, or is there a non-material component. And even if the mind is entirely physical, does that mean we can upload it?

The Star Trek transporter problem becomes relevant here.

If the transhumanists have their way and some people are "upgraded," what will happen to the people who remain "natural"? Will they be able to participate in society, or will they be relegated to second-class status?

There are other questions, like how a Republic can function as AI and transhumans take over. How will the economy work in this situation?

There are also religious problems. If humans become linked to some hive mind, isn't that a little like trying to become God? It sounds reminiscent of the Garden of Eden, the Tower of Babel, and even Frankenstein's monster.

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