Resistance is Futile and Other Sci-Fi Maxims Coming Soon

German Socialist, Max Weber, espoused the idea that Capitalism, which in his view was founded on a new emergent work ethos, is at its core an ethical construct. Weber’s central principle is best synopsized by academic Paul du Gay when he writes that “Weber’s deepest concern is the cultivation of individuals with ‘personality’: those willing and able to live up to the ethical demands placed upon them by their location within particular life orders” (3). In short, rather eschew Capitalism as a form of greed, rejecting worldly possessions as tradition has espoused, we should see the intrinsic value of the market as a sort of moral framework. This presents interesting scenarios when we look through the lens of modern digital technologies. While seemingly taken from the realm of science fiction, computerized technologies are today actually gaining success in transferring memories between animals – with humans only a few years away(Kurzweil). While this may, at a cursory view, reek of dystopian alarmism, when considered objectively there is likely good reason to be excited rather than filled with trepidation. Consider those suffering today from ailments such as Alzheimer’s disease, with the attendant wretchedness and desolation experienced – especially by family members that have loved ones taken away too early.

“This new digitally enhanced human ability is not only morally defensible but in fact is in many cases morally obligatory” – John Harris

If the clout of Capitalism -- combined with new emerging discoveries buttressed by technology -- will create a better future for all, why not welcome it? While of course there are always risks that need to be mitigated, the new world of digital productivities that is on the horizon will very likely sweep over us as, serving as our benefactor rather than our adversary. Just as vaccines wiped out many diseases in 20^th century, the current and next centuries will undoubtedly bring may new improvements that are just now beginning to be established in the emerging world of digital technologies. It will prove to be senseless as well to turn our backs on innovation and the discoveries that can make our lives more rewarding. There will always be the technophobes and digital luddites that will argue otherwise, but as Weber noted, the power and influence entailed should be seen from a moral perspective. In short, the rapidly advancing world of digital technology is not only necessary, but on closer examination it becomes apparent that it is in fact absolutely critical to the very future of humankind.

References

Du Gay, Paul. "Notes on Aspects of the Conceptual Architecture of the ‘New Spirit’: Weber and Hirschman." Wilfrid Laurier CS400 MLS.

     Wilfrid Laurier University Course Readings, 2013. Web. 30 Jan. 2017.

Harris, John. Enhancing Evolution : The Ethical Case for Making Better People. Princeton, N.J.:

     Princeton UP, 2007. Print.

"Kurzweil AI | Accelerating Intelligence." Kurzweil AI Neuroscientists Create Organic Computing Brainet Network of Rodent and Primate Brains Humans

     Kurzeil News, 10 July 2015. Web. 30 Jan. 2017.