REQUEST: Singularity Glossary

Rick Knight (rknight@platinum.com)
Mon, 28 Jul 97 18:10:31 CST

Hi all,

I'm assimilating a glossary of terms relative to the concept of
singularity. It is some research for a story. Also, pointers to
previous editions of Extropian digest that might have pertinent info
would be beneficial.

I've seen the term "Fermi Paradox" battered around but I'd like more
information. I'll be surfing and researching on this this evening.

Ultimately, I'd like to provide a story that could be made into film
that has the optimistic impact of "Contact" and not promote the scare
tactics of oldies like "Colossus: The Forbin Project" or newer ones
like "The Web" or (gag!) "Virtuosity" just because the
artistically-deprived and generally bored people of our culture will
lap up anything that has a few moments of dazzle, suspense or
intrigue, even if the bulk of the offering is laden with predictable
outcomes, black "plot" holes and generally require wild suspension of
disbelief merely to enjoy the 1.5 to 2 hours.

Cultural prep work is needed for a singularity to occur if it is to
occur at all. More people see movies than ever. Likely because the
medium of film is a quicker assimilation of information (however
tweaked a form it may come in). That's the direction I'm compelled to
go in.

Hope to hear from some of you...

Rick