Are Humans really Natural-Born Cyborgs?

Lately I have been reading a book called Natural-Born Cyborgs: Minds, Technologies, and the Future of Human Intelligence by Andy Clark.  I've only read the first two chapters but it really is making me reflect on humans and machines and how technology is affecting us.  Clark believes that our merging with objects, devices, and processors is part of our biological makeup and that the smarter the interactive world becomes the harder it is to know where we stop and the world begins.  How does this translate in today's world and better yet, how will it impact the future? 

There is no doubt that humans rely on tools and machines to carry out their daily lives. Whether we are jotting notes down with a pencil and piece of paper, checking our wristwatch for the time, or talking on our cell phones, we are relying on outside tools to help us achieve our tasks at hand. Ever since the beginning of times, human-machine symbiosis has been, and still is a way of life for us. It is who we are. Some tools we use are so natural to us we don’t have to think about using them. For example, when I write, whether with pen/paper or by typing on the computer, I don’t have to think about using the medium. I just concentrate on my thoughts and let it go from there. The same concept applies to when I drive my car. Driving my own car is very natural to me. I know how to operate it without thinking about it. Sometimes my right brain kicks in when I am in “the zone” and I drive for miles without realizing it only to find I have suddenly arrived at my destination. On my computer I can type and type and type without thinking about how to type or that I am using a computer. I just let my thoughts flow.

With the introduction of all of the new tools people are inventing, we are able to become more talented and more efficient. Instead of flying half-way across the world we can have a virtual meeting or experience that land and culture by using a computer. Musicians can use computers and other devices to help them tune their instruments and to help them create new sounds and effects that they otherwise would not have been able to create. Scientists, doctors, and pilots can practice their skills during true-to-life simulations. Now that we do have the ability to come in contact with others from all over the world, we can learn a lot more, collaborate, solve problems, generate ideas, become inspired and inspire others, and thus become more and more proficient as a result. We are no longer just limited to our close circle of friends or colleagues in our community. We no longer have to rely on what books are in the local library or what is in our set of encyclopedias. We now have instant access to a wealth of people and information from all over which is empowering. Even though we may have fewer physical, face-to-face meetings, we are becoming a more collective group and more connected globally. Think about the concept of Freeware vs. expensive software. Think about all the professional and social groups online such as listservs, Ning communities, etc. We are more connected than ever I can’t wait to see the fruits of our collective labor.

I do believe, however, that Clark was a little over overzealous because while some of us embrace the latest technology there are some who do not and will not embrace it. I hear a lot of comments from older folks (not trying to stereotype) that computers and the latest technology even DVD players are so foreign and so “difficult” to figure out they don’t even bother. Other people who may be older or younger may feel like if they have gone this long without it why do they need a cell phone or Smartphone or the latest gadgets. It will be a long time before some types of technology will be ubiquitous. I guess that is where elements of our culture, education, and society must change just like the technology must be easy to use, access, and purchase.

While I am thrilled with the new technology and the new opportunities to connect with others, to learn, and to collaborate, I also think that students should know that 2+2=4 and where India (and Indiana) is on the map without having to rely on a machine. Technological tools should assist us, not take the place of our brains.