We've been merging with tools since the beginning of human evolution, and arguably, that's one of the things that makes us human beings.
Interpretation
Human evolution is deeply intertwined with the use of tools, which is a defining characteristic of our species.
The quote by Franklin Foer emphasizes the intrinsic relationship between humans and the tools we create and use. It suggests that our ability to innovate and merge with technology is not just a modern phenomenon, but a foundational aspect of our evolution, shaping what it means to be human and allowing us to adapt and thrive in various environments.
In practice
During a presentation on human evolution, one might quote this to illustrate how technology has shaped our species.
The biggest problem is that Facebook and Google are these giant feedback loops that give people what they want to hear. And when you use them in a world where your biases are being constantly confirmed, you become susceptible to fake news, propaganda, demagoguery.
I grew up using maps and having a sense of direction, and now I have a phone. I used to try to remember numbers, and now I... can just call them up instantly. And that's great. But what's happening right now is that we're in a phase of human evolution where we're merging with machines.
Any program is only as good as it is useful.
This is not the internet the world needs, or the internet its creators envisioned. We need to take it back. And by we, I mean the engineering community.
I hope to literally change the world with Black Girls Code by changing the paradigm which produces the current monolithic ecosystem in technology.
Technology to wipe out truth is now available. Not everybody can afford it but it's available. When the cost comes down, look out!
Don't just buy a new video game. Make one.
Tomorrow there will be no division to Europe and Asia. These are old concepts that would remain only on maps. Everything will be united. Companies will be united. It is a process of structures growing due to the technological progress.
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