Extropianism - Philosophical Concept | Alexandria
Extropianism, a transhumanist philosophy, embodies a forward-looking vision that seeks continuous improvement of the human condition through science and technology. Often mistakenly conflated with mere technological optimism, Extropianism goes further, advocating for radical life extension, intelligence amplification, and the transcendence of limitations imposed by our biology. Could it be more than just futurism?
The term "Extropy" was coined by Dr. Tom Bell (T.O. Morrow) in his 1988 essay, "The Extropian Principles." It aimed to supersede "entropy," signifying a drive towards order, vitality, and intelligent evolution. This emerged in the late 20th century, captivated by the potential of computing and biotechnology, against a backdrop of Cold War anxieties and nascent environmental concerns. One might question if it offered an escape from the present anxieties or a genuine path to a better future.
The philosophy gained traction in the early 1990s through the Extropy Institute, co-founded by Max More and Bell. It championed principles such as perpetual progress, self-transformation, practical optimism, and intelligent technology. Extropy: The Journal of Transhumanist Thought became a hub for debating advanced technologies and their societal implications. Yet, the movement splintered in the late 2000s, with diverging views on practical strategies and philosophical nuances. It begs the question of whether internal divisions or external indifference ultimately led to the movement's fragmentation.
Despite the Extropy Institute's decline, Extropian ideas continue to influence transhumanist thought and technological development. Its emphasis on radical possibility resonates in discussions about artificial intelligence, genetic engineering, and space exploration. The core tenet, the belief that humanity can consciously direct its evolution, finds echoes in debates about human enhancement and the very definition of what it means to be human. Does Extropianism offer a genuine roadmap for our future, or serve as a thought experiment, prompting us to reconsider our potential and limitations? The answer, perhaps, lies not in the technology itself, but in the choices we make about its application.