Beyond Human

As the line between technology and biology continues to blur, an estimated 11 million humans around the world now have some form of artificial body part(s). Humans have become more machine-like, while machines function more and more like us. "Body Electric," the first part of Beyond Human, surveys our brave new world of the "incredible shrinking universe," a "nano-age" where tiny computer chips implanted in the body can restore hearing, create virtual vision systems projected directly into the cerebral cortex, and perhaps even reverse paralyzing injuries. Futurists and researchers also foresee a new age of "cyber-soldiers," techno-warriors carrying out their mission while communicating with fellow soldiers via the Internet ("death will be digital"). Ultimately, we'll all have a personal imaging system (perhaps a tiny camera mounted on eyeglasses) connected to the Internet providing a "library right inside your head" that will allow us to share experiences and sensations (raising both privacy issues and the question of whether anyone will have time for actual living). The second part, "Living Machines," flips the perspective, discussing our fascination and fear of robots, which can be programmed to beat a chess grand master, but have traditionally flunked simple tasks such as climbing stairs or cracking an egg (that will change with the introduction of new robotics techniques, which seek to merge the function of brain and body in 'bots). Combining animation, special effects, and witty, informative narration, Beyond Human, which is bound to provoke ethical debate and discussion, is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)