Singularitarianism
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Singularitarianism is a moral philosophy based upon the belief that a technological singularity is possible, advocating deliberate action to effect and ensure its safety. While some futurologists and transhumanists speculate on the possibility and nature of this supposed singularity (often referred to as the Singularity), a Singularitarian believes it is not only possible, but that it can also be guided, and acts in ways that he/she believes will contribute to its safety and early arrival.
In his essay Singularitarian Principles (http://yudkowsky.net/sing/principles.html), Eliezer Yudkowsky writes that there are four qualities that define a Singularitarian:
- A Singularitarian believes that the Singularity is possible and desirable.
- A Singularitarian actually works to bring about the Singularity.
- A Singularitarian views the Singularity as an entirely secular, non-mystical process — not the culmination of any form of religious prophecy or destiny.
- A Singularitarian believes the Singularity should benefit the entire world, and should not be a means to benefit any specific individual or group.
Many believe a technological singularity is possible without adopting Singularitarianism as a moral philosophy. Although the exact numbers are hard to quantify, Singularitarianism is presently a small movement.
External links
- Who are Singularitarians? (http://www.acceleratingfuture.com/michael/works/singularitarianism.htm) by Michael Anissimov
- SL4.org (http://www.sl4.org/) - A Singularitarian mailing list