A cyborg is typically referred to as a being that incorporates both human and technological components to enhance its abilities and cognition. The term was first coined in 1960 by Manfred E. Clynes and Nathan S. Kline in their article “Cyborgs and Space.” Cyborgs can take prosthetic limbs or have implanted technology that enhances cognitive abilities. The evolution of cyborgs has been driven by biomechatronics, which develops prosthetics and devices that restore functionality and enhance capabilities.
What Makes a Cyborg?
A cyborg is a being with both organic and biomechatronic body parts. These cybernetic organisms possess enhanced capabilities beyond those of ordinary humans. They can take various forms, from individuals with prosthetic limbs to people with implanted technology that enhances cognitive abilities.
Reality of Cyborgs
Historically, the concept of fusing humans with machines was confined to science fiction. But recent advances now allow for the design of functional, realistic humanoid robots. Robotic limbs can be controlled by thought, thanks to neuroscience research on brain-machine interfaces. However, significant challenges remain in building robust systems for controlling these prosthetics.
While most current research focuses on medical applications, films have long envisioned cyborgs as both heroes and villains. But merging humans with robots is no longer fiction. This raises profound questions about what it means to be human.