ABSTRACT
Cybergenesis is the enjoining of humankind and its smart machines–computers, microchips, cybernetics, and a variety of inorganic mechanisms–to improve the cognitive and physical abilities of the human species. This chapter looks at the development of the smart machines, and also considers some predictions that have been made regarding the roles these machines will play in species' development. The concept of implanting any type of intelligent device in the body, be it an artificial retina or a "neural electrode", is bound to be met with suspicion if not outright hostility by many. The new technologies are the apotheosis of cybergenesis, humanity applying computer technology to promote its own development. The computer, and all calculating and "smart" machines, including the more advanced forms of artificial intelligence, will serve as tools for the human species to achieve its goals. Currently scientists are performing experiments in which subjects are using their brain patterns, unaided by implants, chips, or other devices, to operate a computer.
