The Fourth Age

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A great turning point in human history is imminent, as AI and robotics are set to redefine humanity. Byron Reese posits that technology has reshaped humanity three times: 100,000 years ago with fire leading to language; 10,000 years ago with agriculture leading to cities and conflict; and 5,000 years ago with the wheel and writing leading to nation-states. We now stand on the brink of a fourth transformation driven by artificial intelligence and robotics. The narrative provides essential background on our journey to this moment and emphasizes how we should approach the intricate issues ahead, including machine consciousness, automation, employment shifts, creative computers, radical life extension, AI ethics, autonomous warfare, superintelligence, and extreme prosperity. By posing questions like "Are you a machine?" and "Could a computer feel anything?" Reese guides readers through a compelling exploration of the forefront of robotics and AI. He offers a framework for understanding, discussing, and addressing the challenges of this new era, highlighting their potential to transform humanity. This work is crucial for anyone seeking to navigate beyond polarized views on technology as we approach this pivotal moment in our evolution.