Humans & Machines

Alongside the technological developments such as the telephone, alphabet and coding, the concept of information as a measurable quantity was also developed, this continues to prove that information floods our society. In chapter 7, the “Mathematical model of communication” was a product created to speed up data processing during the World War II. Gleick argues that this invention was more valuable than the production of the transistor. Both Shannon and Alan were pioneers in cryptography. They both worked on their own projects and met and discussed often about ideas and surfaced throughout their work. But, the primary question was if it was possible to create a machine that could THINK. Later, Shannon’s information theory became notable and featured in scientific journals. Shannon’s theory was relatable to Weiner’s similar theory that compared the human nervous system to a system of signals and switches. Weiner then examined the relationship between humans and machines in his book. But its true indeed that the impact of technology on humankind has been of great interest. Attitude towards progress, exemplified by technology, have varied and still does, between fear of change that it brings, and all embracing due to the potential of the “machine”. Computers help humans but don’t share attachment. Yes, humans have control over the computer but the computer has the ability to connect with the human. But in today’s society computers are becoming self sufficient. The theory simply gave value and purpose to the information. As mentioned in the “The Return of Meaning”, “…we approach the final phase of the extensions of man-the technological simulation of consciousness,” (Gleick, 413). The flood of information was responsible for shaping and changing how society communicated.  This was “continuing evolution” and helped humans reach fulfillment. Overall, Gleick provides the readers with a optimistic view of the future regarding the world of boundless information, he writes, is a world of endless possibility. We are our own librarians now as Gleick stated, for the answers are at the fingertips via Google, etc. Now that it’s evident that the internet has changed our relationship to information, the QUESTION in standing is…how do we react to these changes? Or do we?