Re: Various "singularities"

E. Shaun Russell (e_shaun@uniserve.com)
Wed, 11 Dec 1996 07:59:58 -0800 (PST)


On 11/12/96, Steve Witham wrote:

>In these criticisms of belief in "the Singularity," I can't help be curious
>*which* idea of singularity is being criticized. Anders, Max and Shaun,
>for instance, seem to be talking about some wildly optimistic, "let's
>sit back and wait for Santa" version.

Well, I cannot wholly speak for Anders or Max, but I'm pretty sure
that none of us are gathered round the fireplace and looking expectantly up
our respective chimneys --I don't even have a chimney <g>. All joking
aside, I've never doubted the possibility of a 'singularity', nor have I
doubted the impossibility of such an event. Realistically, I think it is
very possible...if there is some way to initiate it. Right now, I'll do
everything I can do to preserve and extend my life, as well as enhance my
human functions. I am *by no means* relying on the profits of the
'singularity' to do things for me. Don't get me wrong, I think a
'singularity' will bring a tremendous amount of new technology to the
forefront, but I've never been one to rely on things I am not sure of.
Oh, and one extra note, I don't think humanity needs to be annihilated for a
'singularity' to occur.

Ingredi Externus!

-E. Shaun Russell

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~~~:~~~> E. ternity E. Shaun Russell
:~~> E. xpansion e_shaun@uniserve.com
:~~~> E. xtropy Extropian poet\musician

-The past is the only inevitability-
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