Technology Convergence: Governance and Gaps in the Era of Enhancement (or “ZombAIs ante Portas!”)

Abstract

Within the context of a given scenario, the authors undertake a preliminary exploration of issues around the convergence of several technologies: artificial intelligence technology, nanotechnology, and red biotechnology. First, we consider the state of these technologies and where they appear to be headed, identifying current capabilities, desired future objectives, and known technical shortcomings to the realisation of the scenario. Second, we identify some of the key social, ethical and legal issues raised by the scenario, highlighting the regulatory instruments that are currently most influential on the development of these techno-sciences and their capacity to address the issues raised (i.e. to address the development of moral machines and socially acceptable intelligent implants). We conclude that there is a need for further and better – more “joined-up” – regulation to govern the convergence of these fields, which will see the science fiction of today (both utopian and dystopian) become a reality.