Human/computer symbiosis
Definition
Human/computer symbiosis is a method of integrating human cognitive capabilities and machine processing power into a single functional unit, often referred to as a “combination organism.” Unlike standard automation, which seeks to replace human roles with software, symbiosis focuses on a cooperative model where humans and programs collaborate to achieve capabilities greater than the sum of their individual parts.
Key Characteristics
- Cooperative Synergy: Tasks are designed so that humans and computers provide complementary strengths (e.g., human intuition and machine speed).
- Combination Organism: The ultimate goal is the creation of a unified entity where the distinction between human input and machine output becomes seamless.
- Competence Merging: The method prioritizes the expansion of abilities—both of the human and the machine—rather than simple task replacement.
- Direct Path to Singularity: It is viewed as a foundational strategy for achieving the technological singularity through human-machine co-evolution.
Applications
- Interactive Systems: Collaborative environments where human feedback and machine processing are interdependent.
- Artistic Co-creation: Projects where humans and algorithms collaborate to produce creative works that neither could produce alone.
- Complex Problem Solving: Scenarios involving high-level reasoning where human oversight and machine data synthesis are inextricably linked.
Related Concepts
Related Entities
- None
Mentions in Source
- “Develop human/computer symbiosis in art: Combine the graphic generation capability of modern machines and the esthetic sensibility of humans.” — The Coming Technological Singularity