Researchers in science and technology stand at the juncture of today’s reality and tomorrow’s possibility. By expanding human potential, scientists pursue the noble goal of minimizing suffering while maximizing efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. Ethical considerations force researchers to look in the mirror at their creations and ask whether gene-editing, generative AI, humanoid robots, invasive digital spaces, mind-altering neurotechnologies, or cloning could harm civilization.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
There is little concern in the hands of cautious, pragmatic, and forward-thinking researchers who stop to ponder ethical considerations. Yet, society incentivizes stunning discoveries, remarkable transformations, and life-changing inventions.
Often big changes, introduced quickly, like Chat GPT, alters humanity’s way of life, forcing people on board and taking away longstanding jobs. At the same time, these new tools offer up-and-coming entrepreneurial types innovative ways of meeting consumer demand. Global citizens must continue to set guardrails to prevent innovations from going awry. Without these protections, an unexpected careening accident may lead to serious consequences.
Opportunities abound for students entering STEM subjects. Dangers also lurk. As you proceed in your quest to unlock innovative opportunities, look around the corner and extrapolate the risks, particularly as countries with few limitations imperil a ‘flat’ and globalized world.
