Humanity is undergoing a transitional phase that will soon be surpassed through the convergence of biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and digital innovation, shaping posthumanism as a new paradigm of thought.
The posthuman extends beyond the biological, psychological, and social boundaries of contemporary humanity, seeking the integration of genetic engineering, the fusion of humans and machines, and digital immortality through mind uploading. This concept envisions the human-god, a biotechnologically enhanced being, while avoiding dehumanization.
The digital transformation of human nature has evolved from the wired human of the Third Industrial Revolution—marked by computers and cyberspace—to the wirelessly networked individual of smartphones, social media, and algorithms.
During the Fourth Industrial Revolution, technologies such as artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, genetic engineering, and nanotechnology intertwine the physical, digital, and biological worlds. With the aid of technology, humans are expected to merge with their creations, paving the way for a new form of existence.
The 21st century is characterized by the rapid advancement of cutting-edge technologies and artificial intelligence. Innovations in genomics, genetic engineering, nanotechnology, bionic prosthetics, and neurotechnology herald a new era in which Homo sapiens may evolve into Homo sapiens Cyborg—an enhanced, modified human with hybrid capabilities through bioinformatics analysis and specialized algorithms, such as personalized medicine and gene therapy.
Furthermore, developments in bionic prosthetics and implant technology, including cochlear and retinal implants, provide support to individuals with motor and sensory impairments. Exoskeletons enhance physical strength, while prosthetic limbs with sensory feedback improve tactile perception. Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) facilitate interaction for patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal cord injuries.
Additionally, neurotechnology holds the potential to restore and enhance cognitive functions in the future. However, mind uploading, a hallmark of posthumanist rhetoric, remains theoretical, aiming at digital immortality.
Artificial intelligence is continuously evolving, displaying self-organizing characteristics and learning capabilities. With vast memory reserves, high processing speeds, and complex analytical mechanisms, AI generates new knowledge, surpassing the human brain’s 100 billion neurons, 3.5 million Gbytes of memory, and 2.2 billion megaflops of computational power (where 1 megaflop equals 1 million operations per second).
The European AI Act mandates that the development and use of AI within the EU be trustworthy while ensuring the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms. This framework seeks to harmonize the internal AI market, fostering innovation and investment.
In the era of artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and robotics, humanity’s apprehension regarding the ethical, legal, social, and practical implications of emerging technologies is both evident and justified. These technologies undeniably mark a turning point in human history, offering a new dimension of possibilities—a fertile and promising landscape for shaping a society that upholds human values, aiming for a symbiotic relationship between humanity and artificial intelligence.
Konstantinos Kouskoukis
Professor of Dermatology – Lawyer
B’ Vice President GDHI
President Hellenic Academy of Thermal Medicine
President World Academy of Chinese & Complimentary Medicine