Lesson 0.9 - 15 October

Its is already week 10! Wow, time is flying by. On a positive note, we're a week closer to the December break. (*throws confetti) So, session 9 touched on emerging and future technologies. The wide range of potentially life-changing technologies are fascinating and intriguing to me. Before I discuss the key take away and what not, the quote (from a dead person, as usual) for this week is:

“You see things; and you say, 'Why?'

But I dream things that never were; and I say, 'Why not?'”

- George Bernard Shaw -

This quote is important in identifying the difference between a falling and a rising star. Following the notion of "why not?" new ideas and conceptions are perceived  where the thought process is spurred towards questioning instead of the accepting of answers. The class then went on to discuss the relationship between this notion and the attitude of a rising star. Instead of settling for an answer, a rising star is receptive to new ideas and concept , constantly seeking new innovative ways to move forward. 

Some of the new technologies shown in class are highly interesting, and I was personally intrigued by the video showing the joint effort of a Japanese and French, a robot called "The Perfect Woman".

Personally, I find it shocking that technological advancements is making science fiction come to life. Never would my 5 years old self thought that I would live to see the day where interacting with a robot is actually possible. However, is this invention really necessary? I understand that technological advancements allow room for various innovative inventions but some of this inventions might actually bring more harm than good. However, it is important to note that this issue is highly subjective as what I perceive as 'harm', others might perceive as 'good'.  Take this robot for example, if the sale of the "Perfect Woman" garner popularity among the male population, wouldn't it affect the global fertility rate? Then again, as prof said: Technology is easy, Man are hard.

The individual presentations held this week was interesting as well. The topic of immortality was brought up in class. With the various medical advancements that are geared towards health solutions for the various diseases and sickness, the idea of immortality might actually be feasible. I haven't thought about it, but how far is too far? Now I understand the ethical concerns surrounding this issue. Are the doctors playing god? Should there be a limit implemented, restricting the development of this rising technology?

That aside, one of the few takeaways from this lesson is that, technology and imagination are intertwined. There is no limit to the advancement of technology. Just like the universe, theres is an endless possibilities to the technological advancements.

As such, I rate this session a 9/10. More of such sessions pretty please with cherry on top?