Author: Mya J.

Humans Vs AI a concept that we contemplate daily. As I think about the future of human augmentation and what it makes look like in my lifetime I’m torn. On the one hand, I’m excited for the new possibilities’ technology would bring about. On the other hand, I have cause for concern for the loss of humanity. It was a time when enhanced physical abilities were things produced in movies and now, they happen. There are endless possiblities when it comes to technology. But this begs the question how far do we take it? What does it mean to be human? How far should alterations go?  

Personally, I’d be open to some of these changes, but only if they align with who I am and what I value. For example, enhanced prosthetics could make everyday tasks easier, especially for people with disabilities. These technologies could help us push past natural limitations and open new ways to experience the world. I’d also consider mental and physical improvement of memory or learning speed in the elderly. I might also be interested in augmentations that improve physical endurance or reduce wear and tear on my body as I age. These kinds of enhancements improve the quality of life and have the power to change many lives.  

Although I am comfortable with some adaptations there are some things I wouldn’t be ok with. For instance, any modifications that are driven by superficial reasons, like achieving a “perfect” version of myself. These kinds of changes seem to prioritize societal standards over individuality and could lead to a loss of what makes humans unique. I’d also draw the line at technologies that compromise anyone’s personal freedoms. Any technology that is created with the intention to oppress others wouldn’t be accepted either. Also, anything that the majority of people couldn’t have access to because of economics and status. The idea of a world where augmentations are required to succeed, leaving those who don’t have the means behind, is something I’d be strongly against. In the end, I believe that human augmentation has the potential to change lives and the world, but only if its used as a tool and maintains humanity and individuality.  

In Blade Runner, the Tyrell Corporation is an example of unchecked power and greed. The company creates replicants while ignoring the moral and ethical implications of what they do. The motto “More human than human” shows the need for the corporation to surpass humans no matter the cost. Comparing the corporation to the corporation of today it’s hard not to think we are going in the same direction. I think that although the film showed real concerns about oppressive corporations, I believe that it’s more of a warning than a future prediction.  

In the film, replicants are designed to serve humanity but are treated as expendable commodities rather than actual beings. With no rights they’re essentially tools for labor and entertainment. This mirrors real-world issues where human rights are often secondary to corporate interests. For instance, companies in fast fashion like sweat shops that frequently exploitative labor of people, particularly in developing countries. Workers endure poor conditions and low wages in order to keep costs down, much like the replicants in Blade Runner who are exploited for maximum efficiency.   

Today’s corporate giants, especially in tech, exhibit some traits that feel like the Tyrell Corporation. Companies like Amazon and Facebook hold massive influence over economies, governments, and even individual lives. For example, Amazon has been criticized for treating its warehouse workers unfairly and subjecting them to harsh conditions. Also, Meta has been accused of putting profit over individuals. These examples show that modern corporations sometimes prioritize growth over morals and ethics, much like the Tyrell Corporation in the film.  The Tyrell Corporation serves as a powerful warning about what happens when companies are left unchecked. While the aspects of exploitation and prioritizing profit over people resonate with today’s issues, the future it presents isn’t inevitable. Instead, it’s a warning of what could happen if we don’t hold corporations accountable for their impact on society.  

If I had the chance to hybridize with any animal, I’d choose the octopus. It might seem like a strange pick at first, but octopuses are incredible creatures. They are considered to be intelligent, adaptable, and mysterious. They can change colors and textures to camouflage, squeeze through tiny spaces, and even regenerate lost limbs. When considering the idea of hybridization, I have to consider how much of my humanity am I willing to sacrifice? What really defines who I am ? Is it just my biology, or is it the choices I make? 

On the upside imagine being able to blend into any environment, slipping out of trouble unnoticed, or reaching places others can’t with flexible, multiple limbs. With octopus-like traits, I could take multitasking to a whole new level, being able to handle several different tasks at once without feeling overwhelmed. I’d also gain enhanced problem-solving skills, since octopuses are known for their intelligence and creativity. I would also have the ability to self-regenerate my limbs.  This hybridization could give me a better sense of control, adaptability, and freedom, helping me face the unpredictable challenges of the world more confidently. 

While having octopus traits sounds amazing, I wouldn’t want to give up everything that makes me human. Being human isn’t just about intelligence or survival it’s about emotional connections, love and happiness. If I gain too many octopus-like traits I may lose the ability to experience life fully or connect with others on a deeper level. For me, the answer is balance. I’d embrace the physical benefits of being part octopus while holding on to my humanity. I wouldn’t want my emotions or personality to change. What makes life beautiful is the relationships and experiences that shape who we are, and my personality makes me who I am, and those things are too important to give up.