God-Like Technology

The real problem of humanity is the following: we have Paleolithic emotions, medieval institutions, and god-like technology. -Edward O. Wilson?

Technology has undeniably changed the way we live our lives, for better or for worse. We can communicate with anyone in the world instantly, we have more knowledge at our fingertips than ever before, and we can get from one place to another faster than we ever could have imagined. However, as Edward O Wilson so astutely points out, the problem is that our brains have not evolved nearly as fast as our technology. We are still emotionally primitive beings trying to navigate a world that is moving at lightning speed. This disconnect can lead to a feeling of isolation, anxiety, and depression. It can also lead to physical problems like addiction and sleep deprivation. Technology is here to stay, but it's important that we find a way to use it in a way that doesn't sacrifice our mental and physical wellbeing. Otherwise, we may end up causing more harm than good.

As Tristan Harris, the founder of The Center for Humane Technology, so eloquently put it: "The biggest technology companies in the world are engaged in a race to the bottom of the brainstem." They are constantly trying to figure out new ways to keep us coming back, even if it means preying on our worst impulses. It's time for us to take a step back and figure out how to use technology in a way that is beneficial for us, rather than harmful. Otherwise, we may end up causing more harm than good.

Harris also has developed the "Ledger of Harm" to keep track of the costs that aren't showing up on the balance sheets of tech companies. The goal is to eventually have this be a mandatory reporting system for technology companies. After all, if the tech industry is going to keep growing at its current rate, we need to make sure that it's doing so in a way that is sustainable and truly beneficial to human beings.

Additionally, media theorist Douglas Rushkoff talks about reclaiming our humanity on the internet. In his book, Present Shock: When Everything Happens Now, he discusses how we can use technology to connect with each other in a more human way. He writes: "The challenge then becomes one of finding ways to use these technologies in service of our humanity, rather than have them use us." It's an important distinction to make. We need to be careful not to allow technology to use us, rather than the other way around. Otherwise, we may end up causing more harm than good.

So how can we make sure that we're using technology in a way that is beneficial for us? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Be aware of the potential dangers of technology addiction and make a conscious effort to limit your screen time.

2. Seek out technology that is designed to promote human connection, rather than isolation.

3. Use technology as a tool to help you achieve your goals, rather than letting it control you.

4. Be mindful of the way that social media affects your mood and take a break from it if necessary.

5. Be careful about the amount of personal information you share online and make sure that you're using privacy settings to your advantage.

6. Remember that you always have the power to disconnect from technology, even if it's just for a little while.

Technology is here to stay, but it's important that we find a way to use it in a way that doesn't sacrifice our mental and physical wellbeing. Otherwise, we may end up causing more harm than good. What are your thoughts? Share them with me in the comments below!