ubiquitous-computing

The chapter introduces the central paradox in the development of artificial intelligence and robotics: the tension between designing machines to augment human capabilities versus replacing humans entirely. It traces the historical roots of this dichotomy through key figures like John McCarthy and Douglas Engelbart, and discusses contemporary implications for society, labor, and control in an era of ubiquitous computing and big data. The author emphasizes the importance of design choices in shaping the future relationship between humans and autonomous machines, highlighting both utopian and dystopian possibilities.

This chapter explores the evolution of surveillance capitalism through the lens of the 'prediction imperative,' highlighting the shift from mere data extraction to active behavioral modification in the real world. It discusses how companies like Google have expanded their data collection from the virtual realm into everyday physical environments, employing ubiquitous computing to predict and influence human behavior for commercial gain. The chapter emphasizes the emergence of a powerful apparatus that integrates data extraction with execution to guarantee desired outcomes, marking a new phase in the economic and technological landscape.

This chapter explores anticipated future advancements in computing technology, focusing on fully autonomous self-driving cars, ubiquitous computing integrated into everyday environments, the pursuit of artificial general intelligence and the AI singularity, and the evolving role of big data in scientific discovery. It highlights the challenges and potential impacts of these technologies on society and scientific methodology.