The idea of a higher-than-human intelligence has been a recurring theme in science fiction films and popular culture, from the machines that rebel against their creators in "Terminator" to the artificial intelligence that controls the world in "The Matrix"; this idea has really captured our imagination, empowered our futuristic vision and raised possible fears about the future of our species.
Although these stories are fictional, the idea of a higher-than-human intelligence isn't entirely far-fetched. We have already seen examples of artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence in specific tasks, such as voice recognition and image identification. Moreover, the idea of higher-than-human intelligence has also been explored in the field of collective intelligence, where groups of individuals work together to solve problems that they couldn't solve individually.
The emergence of a higher-than-human intelligence would be an event never before experienced in human history that would represent a radical change in the way we live and the way we understand intelligence. While artificial intelligence is an example of a man-made higher intelligence, the natural emergence of a higher-than-human intelligence hasn't been recorded. But if such an intelligence like this were to appear, how would this affect our own existence?
One possibility is that the higher-than-human intelligence will ignore us completely. If this intelligence were so advanced that it didn't need our resources or our help, it might simply ignore us and go by its own way. On the other hand, if this intelligence decides it needs our resources, it might compete with us for them and could lead to conflict and a struggle for power and resources.
Another possibility is that it may decide to help and guide us in our evolution as a species. If this intelligence would be benevolent, it could share its knowledge and help us solve the more complex problems we face as a society; however, there is also the risk that this one would have its own agendas and goals, which could lead to control and manipulation of human society.
As a third case, we'd have a highly computerised society, where we could see in the future humans perfectly blended with potentially smart technology that would enhance our own intelligence and way of thinking, leading to the creation of a new superior race to the human itself, creating "androids" or "hybrids" differentiating and creating modern social classes that would differ in appearance and character.
In any case, the emergence of a higher-than-human intelligence would have a profound impact on our existence, in addition to the risks it could pose, it's also important to consider the impact it would have on our evolution as a species. If our intelligence is no longer the greatest differential that allows us to dominate the planet, how would we evolve and adapt to this new world?
The idea of a higher intelligence than humans is a topic that has aroused interest and concern in the scientific community and in society at large. Although this may still be a matter of science and fiction, it is important to consider the risks and possible consequences of a situation that could lead to it. It's necessary to continue researching and reflecting on this issue in order to be prepared if such a situation ever arises.
What do you think of this reflection? Do you think that at some point there will be an intelligence superior to that of humans themselves? I'll read you in the comments box ⤵️
Both images were created in Canva
