Entrevista 14 | Cyborgs, humanos unidos a la tecnología: Neil Harbisson

Cyborgs and the Intersection of Art and Technology

Defining Cyborgs

• The term "cyborg" combines "organism" and "cybernetics," referring to any organism connected to cybernetics, either biologically or psychologically.

• Individuals who feel a strong connection to technology that alters their identity can be considered cyborgs; this includes those with cybernetic implants.

Artistic Perspective on Technology

• Technology is viewed as a medium for artistic expression, similar to photography or woodwork, allowing for both practical applications and art creation.

• The speaker's new organ, an antenna implanted in their head, enables them to perceive colors beyond human capability by detecting infrared and ultraviolet light.

Sensory Experience Enhancement

• The antenna allows the speaker not only to perceive more colors but also to experience them through vibrations within the skull.

• This sensory enhancement connects the speaker to the internet, enabling color data transmission from various sources like NASA's International Space Station.

Color Perception Insights

• The speaker discusses how common perceptions of skin color are misleading; they argue that humans are fundamentally orange due to vibrational frequencies.

• Their favorite color is infrared, which is invisible yet deeply profound when perceived.

Challenges of Being a Cyborg

• New sensory organs may be invisible or subcutaneous; visible enhancements can provoke social reactions ranging from curiosity to hostility.

• Potential risks include biological rejection of implants and psychological challenges related to heightened sensitivity or mental overload.

Cybersecurity Concerns for Cyborgs

• With cybernetic organs connected to the internet, there’s a risk of physical hacking; thus, laws protecting cyborg rights are deemed necessary.

• Current legal frameworks do not adequately protect individuals whose bodies integrate technology as part of their identity.

Ethical Considerations in Cybernetic Surgery

• The speaker underwent surgery performed by an anonymous doctor due to ethical concerns raised by bioethics committees regarding such procedures.

• A parallel is drawn between current attitudes towards cybernetic surgeries and past views on transgender surgeries during the 1950s and 60s.

Collaborative Efforts in Creating Sensory Organs

• A network exists among doctors interested in performing these surgeries despite ethical pushback; collaboration involves engineers, designers, medical professionals, and patients.

• Future possibilities include creating organs that regulate body temperature independently from external heating or cooling systems.

The Intersection of Technology and Nature

Regulating Human Temperature through Technology

• The discussion revolves around the potential to create an organ that could regulate human body temperature, highlighting a blend of technology and biology.

• The speaker emphasizes that the relationship between technology and nature is not one of separation; rather, they see it as interconnected.

• There is a notion that embracing technology can enhance our connection to nature, contrary to common beliefs about technological alienation.

• The idea presented suggests that as humans modify themselves with technology, they may feel increasingly integrated with natural processes.

• This perspective challenges traditional views on the dichotomy between technological advancement and natural existence.