Where Are We Going?

This is a topic that I think about a lot. Obviously, nobody can tell the future, but one can predict likely outcomes based on the evidence available. A picture has been coming into focus for me; one that seems like a likely outcome. I would like to share this image with you, and perhaps we can avoid it because it doesn't turn out so well for you and me.

The image starts with the recognition that we are moving toward an automated society. For thousands of years, the majority of humanity has been the fuel for a giant productive machine that built the wealth and power of a select few. I see that role, and the need for human fuel, coming to an end.

There are several parallel paths of research being pursued right now that reinforce this concept. 

First, the research into longevity; the promise is that lifespan being extended dramatically within the next 50 years, and immortality being reached within the next 200 years or so. The problem with this is that immortality is an unworkable solution for the 7+ billion populace of our planet and the multiple cultures that encourage reproduction. This will be an option only available to the rich and powerful.

Next, I would point to nanotechnology. Humanity is moving toward an age when microscopic robots, or "nanites," will be capable of reproducing and modifying molecular compounds. This means that they can build anything, atom by atom as long as they have the programming and the material. The raw material is the world around us, and the programming will be a simple matter of having the nanites replicate something (anything) that already exists.

This technology is especially of concern for several reasons. First, some of the positives - humans will have an army of nanites in their bodies taking care of everything from tooth decay to cancer, wound repair, infections, or even cell decay (see immortality above). Two of the biggest problems with this technology is that anyone can have anything (say... a nuclear warhead), and it will be free of cost. 

At that point, the power related to financial superiority disappears as there is no need for an economy. This cannot happen.

Luckily for the elites, there are other technologies being developed. One of Elon Musk's lesser-discussed companies is working (and quite possibly in the animal testing phase) on a neuro-interface for computers. We, like the good sheep we are, will stand in line to have our bodies "augmented" with these new advancements in data sharing. Your smart device will suddenly be a part of your body, and you will have access communications and data at all times.

Combine this technology with the nanites I mention above, and anything that can be imagined will be able to be created.

This advancement provides two great benefits to the elites. First, it will be harvesting information at a phenomenal rate, most of which will be considered garbage, with no use beyond helping to move into the next phase. Some valuable nuggets will be mined from the mass, as humanity will be essentially a giant supercomputer working on resolving problems that may be encountered in the next phase. The second, these "augmentations" will likely be the tool that is used to implement the next phase.

What is this next phase to which I am referring? The mass culling of the human race.

I believe it is likely that within the next 500 years, the vast majority of humanity will be dead. A very small percentage (less than .0001%) of ruling elite will have achieved a level of independence through self-maintained technology, and effective immortality.

The Earth will return to a utopian natural preserve for those select few that make the cut.