Uncertainty about the destiny of humanity has always sparked conversations across cultures and eras. Today, archaeologist and deputy director of Atapuerca, Eudald Carbonell, shares his vision for what lies ahead for our species in his book The Future of Humanity. He outlines a clear tenet for survival as we pursue it: we are an unduly reckless species because of how we relate to the environment.
According to Carbonell, humanity stands at a breaking point built by the very uncertainty that slows our evolution. In a recent discussion, he argues we must step beyond our current limitations and suggests a bold route forward: the socialization of artificial intelligence.
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For Carbonell, human history is measured by the capacity to adapt to the surrounding world and the circumstances of daily life. We are living through a logical and digital revolution that demands a fresh adaptability and a new vision, a vision that will decide whether our trajectory ascends or declines.
In this conversation, Carbonell mentions a growing group of artificial intelligence experts who have called for a six-month pause on certain AI developments. He favors governance and social oversight of these advances, yet he does not advocate halting progress. He sees a future where artificial and natural intelligence merge, and where people gain insight through this historical convergence.
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The archaeologist cautions against overestimating humanity’s ability to absorb the fusion of mind and machine. Facing a potential collapse of global systems, he urges clear thinking and decisive action: grab the bull by the horns or watch it slip away.
The key, Carbonell argues, lies in collective conscience and responsible choices. If guided wisely, the coming adjustments could set down basic criteria that sustain human life for a time and allow a measured renewal of civilization.
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Carbonell emphasizes that every impact on the system’s memory bears weight on how we understand ourselves as a species. His perspective reflects the notion that a pessimistic view can actually contain the seeds of informed optimism about our future.