In recent years – first in science fiction, and now increasingly in tech headlines – a particular word has begun to surface more and more often: Singularity.
Originally, this term was used by mathematicians (describing points where equations break down) and physicists (most famously, when discussing black holes). But today, if you’re hearing it in conversations about technology, it likely means something else – generally referring to computing power, artificial intelligence, and exponential change.
The recent leaps in AI may just seem like new tools for making quick work of essays or generating memes. They are much more than that, though – they mark the beginning of a profound shift that will, sooner or later, ripple through every part of our lives. It’s worth taking a few minutes now to explore what the Singularity actually is, what it could mean for us, and how we might begin to prepare for it.
Continue reading “What is the Singularity?”