Sensors and the Law

While previous chapters discussed the role of prosthesis and implants as technologies moving humanity closer to a merger with artificially intelligent machines, this chapter introduces the reader to another technology that will be essential for reaching a Posthuman age—sensors and sensor networks. Following the law of accelerating returns, the last two decades have seen dramatic improvements in sensor technology, as a result, billions of smaller, faster, and more powerful sensors are being embedded within the world. It is now common for people to wear wristbands or clip-on sensors that record their vital signs such as activity levels and sleep patterns; in addition, some people are wearing identification badges which employers use to track their location and allow entry into secure buildings. And recently, advances in digital tattoos means that people can wear temporary epidermal circuits which monitor their health. With continuing improvements in technology, sensors that are currently worn on the body are beginning to “move under the skin,” creating an emerging class of cyborgs that has capabilities beyond those of current nonenhanced humans. For example, with implant technology, appropriately equipped cyborgs can detect magnetic fields, see infrared light, hear color, engage in telepathy, and augment the world with information. And as sensor technology continues to experience rapid growth, when combined with advances in nanotechnology, by midcentury, self-replicating nanobots will enter the body to repair damaged organs and cells- when this happens, the number of sensors could grow to the trillions. Clearly, sensors will have a major role to play in our cyborg future.