Why human enhancement (human 2.0) is changing our world

Exoskeletons are machines worn by humans that help improve a person’s strength and endurance. The exoskeleton market was estimated to be worth around $127 million in 2019 and is expected to reach $5.4 billion by 2028. These devices are increasingly being used in industries such as manufacturing and construction to reduce workplace injuries and increase productivity. For example, Ford has seen a 70% reduction in ergonomic injuries among assembly line workers using exoskeletons. In the medical field, exoskeletons support rehabilitation by restoring mobility for patients with spinal cord injuries and strokes.

Brain-computer interfaces allow direct connectivity between brain-brain interfaces and external gadgets. Furthermore, the brain-computer interface (BCI) market is projected to grow from approximately $1.5 billion in 2021 to approximately $3.85 billion by 2026. Given that BCIs are primarily designed to assist people suffering from severe disabilities, they provide communication and control channels through which this can be done. Companies such as Neuralink are pioneers in this field, with their mission being to create high-bandwidth brain-machine interfaces that can restore vision or hearing or enable brain-to-brain communication.

The advent of Human 2.0 technology is blurring the boundaries between humans and machines, challenging our sense of identity and spirituality. By gaining spiritual insights from texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, we can look at these complex issues from a more profound perspective.

• Spiritual essence: According to the Bhagavad Gita, life and consciousness arise from spiritual essence (soul) that is beyond material matter. This idea challenges the belief that consciousness can be fully explained by technological or material enhancements.
• Limitations of Materialism: As technology advances, we are prompted to consider the limitations of materialistic thought. Spiritual teachings reveal that while technology can enhance physical capabilities, it cannot replicate the true essence of consciousness or the profound depth of human experience.
• The purpose of human existence: Spiritual philosophies, including the Gita, view human life as a journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. Our experiences are seen as opportunities for soul evolution and the attainment of higher truth.
• Integration of Technology: While embracing technological advancements, we must remember that we are spiritual beings experiencing human life. The Gita encourages thoughtful use of technology, ensuring it aligns with our spiritual purpose and ethical values.
• Managing Technology: The Gita’s teachings on duty (dharma) emphasize our responsibility to use technology ethically and responsibly. As we continue to blur the lines between humans and machines, we must uphold principles that respect the sanctity of life and promote harmony among all beings.
• Impact on relationships: The integration of technology affects our relationships with ourselves, with others, and with the environment. The Gita’s teachings on compassion and interconnectedness guide us in fostering empathetic relationships amid technological advancements.
• Cognitive enhancement: BCIs are being developed to treat neurological disorders, potentially benefiting millions of people. However, the long-term effects on the brain are still being studied, raising concerns about safety and efficacy.
• Genetic engineering: Technologies such as CRISPR are promising in treating genetic diseases, but also pose ethical dilemmas regarding human gene editing.
• Spirit and technology: The integration of technology into our bodies prompts reflection on the essence of our being. Many spiritual traditions consider the spirit to be the core of human existence, a concept that has been challenged by human enhancement technologies.
• Purpose and meaning: The pursuit of enhancements must align with our higher purpose. Technologies should aim to uplift humanity, foster empathy, and deepen our connection with the world.
• Interconnectedness: Human enhancement can increase our sense of interconnectedness by transcending physical limitations. However, it also risks isolating us from our natural self and environment.
• Ethical management: The ethical use of enhancement technologies is crucial. We must ensure that these tools benefit all of humanity and do not create new forms of inequality or harm.

By considering these perspectives, we can navigate the integration of Human 2.0 technologies in ways that honor both our spiritual and ethical responsibilities.

The potential for human enhancement is enormous, from enhancing memory and cognitive processing through neural implants to optimizing physical performance through genetic modifications. However, it is important to balance the benefits of these technologies with ethical considerations to ensure they serve humanity positively and equitably.

Human enhancement promises to transform lives by increasing our physical and cognitive abilities. By addressing ethical concerns and ensuring responsible development, we can use these technologies to enhance human potential while maintaining our core values ​​and identity.

This article is written by Ravi Changle, Director, AI & Emerging Technologies, Compunal Digital.