The Singularity Is Near

In this chapter, Kurzweil discusses the wide array of impacts from the evolution of nonbiological intelligence. As humans enter the Singularity, they must rethink all the processes that have dominated their lives since the beginning of their evolution. Kurzweil asserts that the introduction of nanobots to our bodies and brains will radically alter the relationship between biological and nonbiological thinking. Over time, human intelligence will expand outward into the galaxy.

Kurzweil outlines several areas within which the Singularity will redefine the human experience. War will be redefined as nanotechnology makes instruments of war more accurate and localized. Conversations about intellectual property will initiate a struggle for maintaining ownership of ideas. Sensory pleasures, like sexual intercourse and eating, will be approached in an entirely different way. The biological function of sex will be relegated to artificial intelligence, and humans will pursue sexual intimacy for sensory pleasure only.

The same will be true for eating. Nanobots will enable humans to eat what they wish, with a focus on taste, pleasure, and texture rather than survival, without gaining weight or experiencing detrimental effects to their health. Nanobots will enter the digestive tract, as well as the bloodstream, to improve the body’s processes and maximize health.