The Singularity Is Near

Artificial intelligence, also called machine intelligence, refers to the simulation of human brain intelligence by a computer. Artificial intelligence uses algorithms and processing models to simulate the processes of the human brain.

Circuits are the building blocks of modern technological devices. They provide space for a series of interconnected transistors and other electronic components to work together to accomplish specific processes.

The historical exponential view projects that development and evolution advance exponentially, meaning that the rate of progress continues to accelerate over time. Kurzweil argues that the exponential growth of human and technological evolution starts out slowly and then increases in pace with each new paradigm.

The intuitive linear view projects that development and evolution advance at a constant rate over time. Each new development is added to the next. This is in contrast to the historical exponential view touted by Kurzweil.

The law of accelerating returns is a concept created by Kurzweil that aligns with the historical exponential view. This idea suggests that advancement always takes place in an accelerated way, building exponentially over time. This creates a predictable pattern upon which Kurzweil and others may make predictions about the future of human advancement. This idea is criticized for a failure to acknowledge concerns about resources and other limitations.

Nanotubes are cylindrical structures comprised of carbon atoms and were first discovered in 1991. Kurzweil argues that nanotubes will play a significant role in the development of new technologies.

Kurzweil defines order as the arrangement of information to meet a specific purpose. He argues that evolution does not always lead to increased complexity, but it does always lead to increased order.

As it relates to Kurzweil’s work, a paradigm refers to a period of technological advancement that is prompted by a paradigm shift. A paradigm shift occurs when evolution reaches the end of its S-curve and can develop no further. Then, a paradigm shift sparks a new wave of development that can also be charted using the S-curve.

According to Ray Kurzweil, the Singularity refers to the fifth epoch, a time when human and machine intelligence will merge and the definition of humanity will change. Kurzweil proposes that humans will transcend biology when they consolidate intelligence with machines.