Man-Computer Symbiosis by J. C. R. Licklider (1960)
Man-computer symbiosis, proposed by J.C.R. Licklider in 1960, envisions a close partnership leveraging computers to enhance formulative thinking and decision-making. This symbiotic relationship emphasizes real-time problem-solving, combining human creativity with computing speed for improved problem-solving capabilities.
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Man-computer symbiosis, as proposed by J.C.R. Licklider in 1960, envisions a close partnership between humans and computers. The goal is to leverage computers to aid in formulative thinking and decision-making processes, allowing for more effective intellectual operations. This symbiotic relationship requires advancements in computer technology such as time-sharing, memory components, programming languages, and input/output equipment. The concept differs from mechanically extended man by emphasizing a tight coupling between human and machine, enabling real-time problem-solving and enhancing technical thinking. The potential of man-computer symbiosis lies in combining human flexibility and creativity with the speed and accuracy of computing machines. By integrating computers into the thinking process, tasks that are currently time-consuming and clerical could be performed more efficiently, leading to significant improvements in problem-solving capabilities. The future of technological systems may see machines surpassing human brain functions, but in the interim, collaborative man-computer partnerships are expected to drive intellectual advancements and innovation.
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10 comments> "The idea may be highlighted by comparing instructions ordinarily addressed to intelligent human beings with instructions ordinarily used with computers. The latter specify precisely the individual steps to take and the sequence in which to take them. The former present or imply something about incentive or motivation, and they supply a criterion by which the human executor of the instructions will know when he has accomplished his task. In short: instructions directed to computers specify courses; instructions-directed to human beings specify goals. ... It is clear that, working within the loose constraints of predetermined strategies, computers will in due course be able to devise and simplify their own procedures for achieving stated goals."
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I believe the meaning of symbiosis has evolved since 1960. Symbiosis is now an umbrella term that only implies a close association between two organisms. It doesn't necessarily imply mutual benefit anymore. A mutually beneficial association is called mutualism. An association where one benefits at the expense of the other is parasitism. Commensalism is when one benefits and the other is neither harmed nor benefited. There is also amensalism, where one is harmed and the other is neither harmed nor benefited. Symbiosis is the superset of parasitism, commensalism, amensalism, and mutualism.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Symbiosis
It's amusing to me when people use "symbiosis" in the old sense and then I start pondering whether the thing they're describing is actually {mutual,amensal,parasit,commensal}ism
Would Licklider be happy with the AI slop that we see today? Would he be able to use LLMs in a productive manner?
People in that era could be optimistic because they did not suffer from information overload. The best symbiotic relationship is still man-book or man-pencil-and-paper.
5.4 The Language Problem
The basic dissimilarity between human languages and computer languages may be the most serious obstacle to true symbiosis.
Very cool but also very creepy. Has a clear potential to become the most evil thing humanity has ever done.
Checking now, it has been posted to HN a few times in the last weeks but without discussion really taking off.
https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/cpus/worlds-first...
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