Philosophy in the Holodeck: Thinking Critically About the Emerging Technology

Joseph D. Kuzma's Philosophy in the Holodeck explores the various societal and ethical dilemmas that arise with the emergence of new technologies.  Kuzma discusses a variety of topics ranging from the rise of artificial intelligence and humanoid robots, to the future of warfare and genetic enhancement.  He offers readers a balanced and briskly paced survey of competing perspectives on each issue, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each position.  Concluding each chapter with a set of critical thinking questions, Kuzma guides the reader toward a nuanced consideration of the social, political, moral, and philosophical ramifications of new technologies.  

Topics covered in this textbook include:  Ray Kurzweil and the singularity, Asimov's laws of robotics, the uncanny valley in humanoid robot design, the possibility of "mind-uploading," the ethics of autonomous weapons systems, germline gene editing, cloning, privacy and surveillance in the digital age, human life extension, and Nick Bostrom's "simulation hypothesis."

This book comprises an indispensable introduction for any student interested in the philosophy of emerging technology and the ethical dilemmas associated with technological progress."