Guest Editorial

Extract

It is well known that we are beholden to Norbert Weiner for coining the modern use of the term “cybernetics” to denote a field of study in technological control mechanisms. In recognition of the fact that the blurring between technology and life is becoming increasing apparent, perhaps the title of this Special Section should have been “The Cyborgs among Us.” Using a definition of “cyborg” (i.e., “cybernetic organism”) as persons in which the organic and the technical have fused, more than 10% of the American population already qualify, for example, people with artificial organs, limbs, joints, or electronic pacemakers, drug implant systems, or implanted corneal lenses. Of course, such a definition is quite broad and purposefully provocative, but it remains insightful. Technology is already “under our skin” (both figuratively and literally) and the future only promises more interface at the micro-, nano-, and cellular levels.