[Science World] The Beginning of 'Superintelligence' Connecting Humans and Machines

There is a term called ‘Homo Faber.’ It is a concept of humanity that understands humans by their ability to use and create tools. What is the ultimate way humans use tools (and further, any mechanical devices)? It is when the human body and the tool become one. In the past, the development was limited to tools that were ‘convenient to use by hand,’ but now it has reached a stage where humans and tools merge to further enhance human capabilities themselves. The purposes vary. It is used to enhance physical abilities or to overcome disabilities. Recently, there have also been attempts to enhance human intellectual abilities themselves. If the human brain can be connected to a computer, memory and calculation abilities would increase overwhelmingly. This is the realization of so-called ‘superintelligence.’

The broadest concept is probably HMI (Human-Machine Interface). If any part of the human body can be connected to a machine, it can be considered HMI. For example, high-performance prosthetic legs or arms also fall under HMI. When a computer is involved in this process, it becomes HCI (Human-Computer Interface). For instance, if a state-of-the-art prosthetic arm equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) technology is used, it can be called HMI, but HCI is more appropriate. Going one step further, if the brain is directly connected to a computer, it is called BCI (Brain-Computer Interface). For example, in 2022, an Italian named Michele Roccati underwent electrode implantation surgery stimulating the spinal cord after a motorcycle accident left his lower body immobile, enabling him to walk with both legs. However, this was connected to the spinal nerves, not the brain. Therefore, in this case, HCI is the correct term, not BCI.

The trend is BCI. The recently preferred method is implanting a chip on the surface of the human brain. Through this, the brain and computer are connected. This method has gained attention thanks to Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla. As the CEO of global companies such as the electric car company Tesla and space company SpaceX, he also owns the brain neuroscience startup Neuralink, which has developed brain neural chips and conducted animal experiments, attracting much attention. Ultimately, Musk announced on the 29th of last month that ‘they have succeeded in implanting a chip in a human brain for the first time, and the person who underwent the surgery is currently recovering well.’

There are concerns because it directly touches the human brain, but such research holds great value. First, it is meaningful for therapeutic purposes. It allows vivid observation of the brains of patients with brain diseases and can stimulate the brain using electrodes. Although further research is needed, various attempts can be made depending on the application. Regarding this clinical trial, Musk said, “It will enable people to control almost all devices, including mobile phones and computers, just by thinking.” He further believes it is possible to directly connect the brain to supercomputers and realize superintelligence.

Of course, such claims are largely exaggerated. Brainwaves are not brain activity itself. They are merely byproducts produced by brain activity. While it is true that much can be learned about the brain through brainwaves, it is unrealistic to expect that all information inside the brain can be extracted.

However, if more technologies applicable through continuous research and development (R&D) become available, the human capabilities that can be enhanced through BCI technology will also increase significantly. CEO Musk’s immediate goal is “to enable people who cannot use their limbs to control all devices such as mobile phones and computers just by thinking.” There will likely be many people who desire such benefits.

Jeon Seung-min, Science and Technology Writer

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.