Keynote & Q&A with David Wood at The Merode (Brussels) on 17.02.25.
David Wood is a prominent UK-based futurist and transhumanist, renowned for his extensive contributions to both the technology sector and forward-thinking societal initiatives. As a pioneer in the smartphone industry, he co-founded Symbian in 1998, significantly influencing the evolution of mobile computing. Transitioning from industry to futurism, David now serves as the Chair of London Futurists, organizing regular events that delve into the impact of emerging technologies on society. He is also the Executive Director of the LEV Foundation, focusing on strategies to combat aging and promote longevity. An accomplished author, David has penned or edited twelve books exploring future technologies and their societal implications, including “The Singularity Principles” and “Sustainable Superabundance.” His active engagement in discussions about transhumanism and the future of humanity positions him as a leading voice in envisioning and shaping the trajectory of technological and human advancement.
The Future of Human Enhancement: Transhumanism and the Wise Embrace of Technology
On the precipice of a technological revolution, transhumanism is no longer a fringe ideology—it is rapidly becoming an integral part of our discussions about the future of humanity. At this recent keynote and Q&A session with David Wood, we explored the profound implications of artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and cognitive enhancement on the future of human development. The conversation delved into the selective and wise integration of technology, emphasizing the need for education, ethical considerations, and societal adaptation.
The Evolution of Human Enhancement
Human beings have been transcending biological limitations since prehistoric times. From the use of fire to medical advancements like prosthetics and gene therapy, technological evolution has always been intertwined with human progress. However, what differentiates the current wave of innovation is the shift from enhancing external products and services to the augmentation of human beings themselves.
David Wood’s framework for transhumanist progress centers around five key dimensions of profound human enhancement:
- Super Abundance – AI, nanotech, and biotech could create a future where resources are abundant, basic needs are met for all, and human well-being is prioritized.
- Super Longevity – Advances in biotechnology and regenerative medicine could drastically extend human life spans, reducing age-related diseases and mortality.
- Super Democracy – The integration of technology in governance could lead to more transparent and participatory decision-making.
- Super Intelligence – AI and cognitive enhancements have the potential to elevate human intelligence to unprecedented levels, but only if developed with caution and ethical considerations.
- Super Happiness – the use of advanced technology to enhance emotional well-being, reduce suffering, and create a world where people are naturally kinder, more joyful, and deeply enlightened.
The Pace of Change: The ‘Slow, Slow, Sudden’ Effect
Historically, transformative technologies have followed a predictable pattern: slow incremental progress followed by a sudden and widespread deployment. AI, biotechnology, and nanotechnology are currently in the slow-build phase, but their convergence could trigger an exponential breakthrough with profound societal impacts.
A key insight from Wood’s discussion was that AI will not only advance itself but also catalyze breakthroughs in biotech, nanotech, and cognitive science, accelerating a paradigm shift in human expectations.
Changing Expectations and the Three Camps of AI Thinkers
As AI develops, David Wood is observing a split into three distinct mindsets regarding its trajectory and impact:
- AI Incrementalists – These individuals advocate for gradual integration and careful monitoring of AI advancements.
- AI Accelerationists – This group pushes for rapid AI-driven transformation, believing that embracing AI at full speed will maximize benefits.
- AI Safety Activists – Concerned about AI risks, they call for stringent safety measures, regulations, and ethical frameworks to prevent unintended consequences.
These differing viewpoints highlight the need for education, open dialogue, and proactive regulation to ensure AI and other emerging technologies benefit humanity rather than harm it.
Super Intelligence: Selectivity is Key
One of the most critical takeaways from the discussion was the necessity of selective technological development. While innovation is intrinsic to human history, the stakes are higher when the human being becomes the product rather than merely the user of technology.
AI, by its nature, carries inherent biases, reflecting the data and frameworks it is trained on. If left unchecked, these biases could lead to unintended and potentially harmful consequences. Therefore, a cautious and deliberate approach to AI deployment is essential to ensure ethical and fair outcomes.
The Road Ahead: Wise and Selective Embrace of Tech
Transhumanism presents a vision of a future where humanity enhances itself beyond current biological constraints. However, this vision must be pursued wisely. The responsible application of AI, biotech, and other transformative technologies requires a robust foundation of education, ethical reflection, and regulatory foresight.
Ultimately, the question is not whether we should embrace transhumanist advancements but how we should do so—ensuring that innovation serves as a force for universal well-being rather than a tool for unchecked power. As technology accelerates, our collective responsibility is to shape its trajectory with wisdom, foresight, and an unwavering commitment to human values.
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Written by Lorena Billi
