Strong superhumanity
Definition
Strong superhumanity refers to a fundamental, qualitative transformation in the nature of intelligence that transcends mere improvements in computational speed or efficiency. It represents a shift in how minds communicate, how self-awareness scales, and how the individual βegoβ is managed within a high-bandwidth, networked existence. It characterizes a complete transformation of what a mind can be during a Singularity-level transition.
Key Characteristics
- Qualitative Transformation: Distinct from βweakβ superhumanity, which focuses on quantitative improvements (e.g., faster calculation, better strategy), strong superhumanity focuses on a change in the kind of cognition.
- Networked Interaction: The evolution of intelligence derived from high-bandwidth communication between minds, potentially leading to collective or hybrid consciousness.
- Scaling of Self-Awareness: The expansion of internal experience and identity beyond biological constraints.
- Singularity Essence: Identified by Vernor Vinge as the core catalyst of the Post-Human era, representing a departure from human-centric cognitive models.
Applications
- Cognitive Theory: Used to model the emergence of non-human intelligence and post-human psychological structures.
- Social Forecasting: Analyzing the societal and structural changes that occur when communication speeds exceed biological processing rates.
- Theoretical Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the limits of machine consciousness and the potential for machine-driven qualitative shifts in intelligence.
Related Concepts
Related Entities
- None
Mentions in Source
- βStrong superhumanity would be more than cranking up the clock speed on a human-equivalent mind.β β The Coming Technological Singularity
- βI believe that our best guesses about the post-Singularity world can be obtained by thinking on the nature of strong superhumanity.β β The Coming Technological Singularity