What are the limits of cyborg technology in relation to human development?
As an extension of Cyborg Anthropology previously introduced, the purpose of this case study is to explore how technology is enabling humans to overcome disadvantages using cyborg-like innovations, and to discuss what how this relates to future human/cyborg innovations.
Research/Analysis
Human Bionics
As an extension of Cyborg Anthropology previously introduced, the purpose of this case study is to explore how technology is enabling humans to overcome disadvantages using cyborg-like innovations, and to discuss what how this relates to future human/cyborg innovations.
Research/Analysis
Human Bionics
In years past, simple casts have been used to heal broken bones. With the advancements in areas such as robotic prosthetics, 3D printed casts are not only serving as casts, but also healing the bones at a much faster rate.
Have 3D printer? Require a prosthetic hand? Have no fear...the internet has all the instructions and resources your require to print one out yourself! Multiple design options allow full customizability.
Even further, Bluetooth and Arduino enabled prosthetics? Sure, why not?
The concept of Brain-Machine Interface (BMI) is becoming increasingly common across this field. Items such as cochlear implants for hearing and cornea transplants for eyesight integrate and blur the lines between human and machine by combining the two. Does a human with such technological adaptations experience blurred lines in identity? Kaname Uemura approaches this topic in The Meaning of Self-presenting as a ‘Cyborg’. Would you lose your sense of being 'human'? We will expand on the topic of cyborg and identity in part two of this case study.
Click on the video to the right to hear about the incredible experiments and feats Dr. Nicolelis and his team have conducted dealing with BMIs. They have analyzed brain activity and found a way convert them into motor activity. In other words, they translated thoughts into physical actions!
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