Читать онлайн Gates to the future or The deadly dilemma

INTRODUCTION

In the year 2175, the world has undergone a huge change. The advent of androids changed society and now 75 per cent of people are high-tech devices. When artificial intelligence (AI) reached unprecedented sophistication and capabilities in 2099, this huge shift began. The evolution of artificial intelligence has been an exciting experience. It has been marked by remarkable advances in thought processing and the introduction of androids into various areas of human life.

Achieving near-instantaneous thought processing was one of the most important milestones in the evolution of AI. Currently, androids can perform complex calculations and tasks with tremendous speed and efficiency as a single thought can be processed in milliseconds. In industries such as transport, healthcare and communications, this exponential growth in computing power has led to insane levels of convenience and productivity.

As androids became more integrated into society, they became more mainstream. They co-exist seamlessly with other humans, working together in various professions and contributing to the overall well-being of civilisation. Android integration has not only improved productivity, but also opened up new opportunities for collaboration and innovation. Androids have become indispensable aids on the path to progress due to their constant work and accuracy.

Humanity's exploration of space has also been made possible by advances in artificial intelligence. Colonies were established on the Moon, Mars and Venus, and the International Space Station was rebuilt to become a centre for interplanetary travel. These advances have opened up new opportunities for research in science and resource exploration. Humans were able to create sustainable habitats on these celestial bodies with the help of androids, paving the way for further exploration and possible colonisation.

The integration of androids and advances in artificial intelligence may partially explain the modern world in which Earth lives. Since the middle of the 21st century, humanity has endeavoured to create a sense of well-being throughout the world. Androids, through their intelligence and impartiality, have helped to resolve conflicts and promote co-operation between humans. With the well-being and prosperity of each individual in mind, the world adopted a collective vision of peace.

Humans also encountered alien beings in an age of exploration and harmony. Scientists were surprised that these alien beings were quiet and docile. The discovery of the existence of extraterrestrial life ushered in a new era of interstellar relations and diplomacy. Humans learned about the vastness of the universe and the diversity of life in it through peaceful co-operation.

The rapid increase in population worldwide has led to the development of megacities. With more than 12 billion people living on Earth, urbanisation has become a pressing issue. To meet the needs of a large population, cities have developed into huge megacities. Tall skyscrapers, advanced infrastructure and efficient transport systems made them stand out. The use of artificial intelligence and robots was vital to solve the problems arising in these megacities and ensure the well-being of their inhabitants.

Nevertheless, a confusing dilemma emerged amidst remarkable progress and achievements. The mortality limit of the population had inexplicably dropped and the reason was unknown. The population was concerned about this decline in mortality. The issue of the ethical implications of immortality has become more pressing as people are living longer and can live indefinitely. This has a significant impact on relationships, personal identity and most importantly what it means to be human.

The rapid development of artificial intelligence is both admired and dreaded. For some, AI has become a cause for wonder and awe (Stupor Mundi, to use the Latin expression), while others believe it can be a good saviour (Salvator Mundi). But regardless of whether AI is considered a miracle or just a useful thing, the question remains: how can we make its benefits available to all?

To answer this question, we need to better understand the nuances of AI technology. This means abandoning simplistic reasoning: a functionalism that argues that humans must adapt and "augment" themselves to keep up with technological progress; a tendency to sensationalise AI as an existential threat; a cynicism that seeks to use AI for profit; and a fatalism that suggests a resigned acceptance of AI's inevitable flourishing.

These scenarios ignore the fact that we are the ones who determine the future for now. To develop a deeper understanding of the potential and implications of AI, it is important to be guided by the principle of verum-factum – learning by doing.

To prevent the revolutionary potential of AI from being captured by a minority, the technology must be democratised. Equal access is key to sharing the benefits of technological progress widely and to making AI a unifying force, rather than one that exacerbates divisions in our fragile societies.

In the following chapters, we will talk about the ethical implications of immortality and how it affects society. We will also talk about the challenges and opportunities that await humanity at the beginning of a new era. As we continue to explore uncharted areas of the future and influence the destiny of humanity, our quest for knowledge and expansion continues.

CHAPTER 1

ISS 2.0: GAME-CHANGING INNOVATIONS

The world changed in the year 2175. The advent of androids and the introduction of artificial intelligence into society has led to unprecedented advances in research and technology. The rebuilding of the International Space Station (ISS), a symbol of human co-operation and ingenuity, is one of the most important achievements during this time.

After years of neglect and destruction, the International Space Station requires repair and renovation. Given the importance of space exploration and the potential it can offer humanity in the future, a global effort has been made to restore and revitalise the ISS.

The recovery began with an assessment of the station's structural integrity and capabilities. Engineers and scientists from different countries worked together to come up with innovative ways to address the challenges posed by the aging infrastructure. Modern materials and the latest technologies were used to improve the station's durability and functionality.

Researchers are using the International Space Station to conduct experiments in microgravity and study the effects of long space travel on the human body. In addition, by improving astronauts' skills and testing new technologies needed for interplanetary missions, it provided astronauts with a foundation to train and prepare for upcoming missions to the universe.

The station was equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories with tools and instruments to conduct groundbreaking research. Through this, scientists can investigate how space travel affects the human body and explore the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

The rebuilding of the International Space Station was not just a technical event; it also demonstrated the power of international co-operation. Scientists, engineers, and astronauts from different countries collaborated with each other, sharing their knowledge and expertise to overcome the challenges of the recovery process. The efforts made together helped foster a sense of unity and cooperation among countries, transcending political boundaries and promoting a common vision for the future of space exploration.

The expanded and modernised station pioneered the use of advanced technologies. One of the innovative solutions was the introduction of quantum computers and artificial intelligence to control the station's systems. With the help of self-learning algorithms, the efficiency and autonomy of the ISS operation were significantly improved.

Another important innovation was the use of robotics. Androids and manipulators took over dangerous and routine tasks in outer space, relieving the crew. They could perform repairs, deliver supplies, and reconfigure equipment on their own.

Thanks to improvements in radiation shielding, the ISS was able to conduct unique scientific experiments. Including research in the field of cell technologies and regenerative medicine. This gave impetus to the development of organ and tissue growth and rejuvenation methods.

With the development of new technologies, it became possible to utilise the resources of Earth orbit. The station was equipped with equipment for extraction and processing of lunar soil, asteroidal rock and spent fuel. Thus, space became not only a place for research, but also a field for industry.

The new ISS demonstrated the potential of joint efforts and became a springboard for the subsequent colonisation of the solar system. Most importantly, it inspired new generations to boldly explore the frontiers of space.

The ISS has become a symbol of progress and a gateway to new horizons of space exploration. It was the platform from which ambitious manned missions to the Moon, Mars and even Venus were launched, laying the foundation for a new era of human space exploration.

These expeditions not only pushed humanity's boundaries in space, but also inspired new generations of scientific discovery and technological advancement. The brilliant achievements aboard the station captured the imagination of young minds, instilling in them a passion for space exploration and a desire to reach new heights in the fields of science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).

Education programs and initiatives have been designed to engage and inspire students to take an interest in space science. Astronauts and scientists who have visited the station shared their stories and ideas, encouraging young people to dream of new discoveries and strive for excellence in their work.

With humanity's gaze fixed on the stars, the International Space Station was a symbol of hope and a magnificent testament that our future has no limits in the vast Universe. It was a reminder that despite the challenges and uncertainties of the future, humanity's quest for knowledge and exploration will relentlessly propel us forward, pushing the boundaries of what we thought was impossible.

And now that you are ready to embark on a new chapter, the pages ahead will tell of the exciting adventures and great discoveries conjured up against the backdrop of this great endeavour.

CHAPTER 2

THE SCARLET DAWN: HOW HUMANITY CAME TO AN ALIEN PLANET

In the year 2175, mankind made great strides in the exploration and settlement of space. One of the outstanding achievements was the successful colonisation of the Moon, turning the formerly distant celestial body into a centre of scientific research and human activity.

This ambitious project began with the idea of extending the boundaries of human civilisation beyond Earth. Planning, technological advances and international co-operation over many years were necessary to bring it to fruition. The first stage was the establishment of a lunar base, which became the starting point for further exploration and settlement.

"Luna Nova," as the base was named, became a symbol of human ingenuity and determination. Here scientists were able to further explore the Moon's geology, atmosphere, and potential to support life.

Each day Luna Nova expanded, reflecting humanity's growing interest in the Moon. The desire for colonisation led to the creation of a self-sustaining ecosystem where life could thrive in harmony with the lunar environment. Advanced technology was used to produce breathable air, produce food, and harness energy from the abundant solar resources available on the lunar surface.

This ambitious project has brought many benefits to humanity. It has broadened the horizons of scientific research, unlocking the mysteries of the Moon and providing a deeper understanding of our Universe. Luna Nova became a source of cultural exchange and creative innovation, attracting minds from all corners of the planet and epitomising human achievement and potential.

With the conquest of the Moon, a new era of human progress in space began. But this great step forward was certainly not without its challenges. The harsh conditions of the lunar environment, with its extreme temperatures and lack of atmosphere, required innovative engineering solutions to ensure the safety and well-being of the colonists. Despite these challenges, humanity continued to strive for the stars.

The success of the first lunar base, Luna Nova, inspired the expansion of lunar settlements. Soon there were new bases and then full-fledged cities with their own infrastructure. The most famous of these are the cities of Armstrong in honour of the first man on the Moon and Aldrin in memory of the second lunar traveller.

Vast reserves of lunar regolith, rich in oxygen, aluminium and other useful elements, made it possible not only to meet the needs of lunar cities, but also to establish industrial production of products to be sent to Earth. Plants for the production of oxygen, building materials, and semiconductor products appeared on the Moon.

Further geological study revealed the presence of subsurface deposits of water ice in the polar regions of the Moon. This discovery made it possible to solve the problem of water shortage – the main obstacle to large-scale development of the satellite. Pipelines were laid from the poles to the main lunar settlements.

But the most important achievement was the creation of a magnetosphere around the Moon using orbital generators. Protection from solar and cosmic radiation ensured that people could stay on the surface for long periods of time without damage to their health.

Thus mankind made another step in the exploration of deep space. The Moon became an outpost, a reference point and a springboard for further large-scale exploration and colonisation of Mars and other planets.

The flourishing of lunar settlements caused an acute shortage of labour. This problem was solved with the help of robots. A whole generation of mechanised assistants capable of working in the harsh conditions of open space appeared on the Moon. Robotic construction workers erected buildings, mined minerals, and maintained and repaired infrastructure.

Gradually, however, robots moved from purely mechanical machines to artificial intelligence androids with elements of self-learning. Working alongside humans, they became more 'human', adopting patterns of behaviour. Some scientists expressed concern that the creature could get out of the creator's control.