Cyborgs: Current or Future?

What is a Cyborg? The term evokes images of a science fiction fantasy world where humanity exists as biological-technical hybrid beings, radically different from our genetic forebears. Far fetched ideas that seem far removed from science, such as Terminator and Inspector Gadget.

This is totally different from Cyborg theory, which emerged from Donna Harways 'A Cyborg Manifesto'. The theory states the dynamic relationship between humans and technology defines us as Cyborgs.

In this sense we have always been Cyborgs because our very nature urges us to create technologies that extend our senses and abilities. However, in the past it has been possible to exist without 'technology' in a 21st century sense. New Zealand settlers came to and survived in hostile bush with only their biological bodies to assist them. I believe that this capacity to exist as a biological human being alone is disintegrating.

Cyborg theory is very relevant in this digital era because our use of technology is more obvious and plentiful. We constantly carry mobile phones, i-pods and other technologies. We are uncomfortable when we cannot access these technologies- something which previous generations did not experience.

This reliance has increased through generational change and adjustment, a process that will continue to happen until the biological-technological relationship is redefined as a social normality. Generations that have never experienced not having immediate access to digital technologies will not be able to exist as solely biological beings. The hybrid relationship, the cybernetic system will be set in stone.

Cyborgs are our future.