A manifesto on effective transhumanism is vital in providing a cohesive set of guiding principles for responsibly developing and applying transformative technologies for the betterment of humanity. As we face rapid technological advancements, it is crucial to establish a shared vision that ensures these innovations are harnessed ethically and equitably. This manifesto serves as a call to action and a moral compass, guiding researchers, policymakers, and society as we navigate the uncharted waters of our technological future.
Accelerate the development of enhancement technologies: As transhumanists, we must actively drive the rapid advancement of human enhancement technologies such as genetic engineering, AI, nanotechnology, and neurotechnology, pushing the boundaries of our physical, cognitive, and emotional capabilities.
Foster innovation in human-machine integration: Emphasize the importance of developing cutting-edge technologies that enable seamless integration between humans and machines, enhancing our ability to interact with and control the digital world.
Support the exploration of mind uploading and digital immortality: Advocate for research and development in the field of mind uploading and digital consciousness, exploring the possibilities of achieving digital immortality and transitioning human minds into more advanced substrates.
Pursue space colonization and multiplanetary living: Encourage the development of technologies and strategies that enable humans to establish thriving, self-sustaining communities on other planets, ensuring the long-term survival and growth of our species.
Develop sustainable and equitable societal models: As the world undergoes rapid technological advancements, we must develop four models of society that will need to emerge to ensure adaptability and resilience. These models should be based on the principles of sustainability, social equity, and adaptability.
Techno-ecological societies, which prioritize harmony between technology and the environment, using advanced technologies to minimize our ecological footprint while maximizing human well-being.
Post-scarcity societies, focused on the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities, leveraging technology to eliminate scarcity and provide for the needs of all members.
Decentralized societies, emphasizing distributed networks and localized decision-making, empowering individuals and communities to shape their own destinies while benefiting from global technological advancements.
Hybrid societies, which combine the best aspects of the previous models, creating a diverse and adaptable global community that can respond to new challenges and opportunities as they arise.
Champion the development of artificial general intelligence (AGI): Advocate for the pursuit of AGI that can outperform humans at most economically valuable work, ensuring that its development is aligned with human values and goals, leading to a positive impact on society.
Encourage longevity research and radical life extension: Support scientific research focused on understanding the biological processes of aging and developing interventions to extend healthy human lifespans, with the ultimate goal of achieving radical life extension.
Explore the potential of human consciousness expansion: Recognize the potential for technology to not only enhance our physical and cognitive abilities but also expand our understanding of human consciousness. This includes researching and developing innovative approaches such as virtual reality simulations, advanced neural interfaces, and consciousness-altering technologies that can provide new insights into the nature of our own minds and promote a deeper understanding of our place in the universe.
As one of the minor authors of the Transhumanist Declaration (1998), I’m very happy to see the inclusion of post-scarcity & decentralized societies here.
I think #5 is integral to the success of all the rest, if we continue the way we are currently going the outcome will not be pleasant. If all of the other points succeed but #5 does not, it will not last long and life on earth will suffer while a small percent of humans will live as gods.