Real Life Cyborgs
The concept of cyborgs has been around for years, with prosthetics and advanced technologies being developed to make up for various physical disabilities. It is a fascinating topic that has been discussed a lot in past.
Cyborgs combine human biology with technological advancements to enhance a person’s senses, abilities or body parts. Often, this is done using a computer assisted brain. Although they can display many characteristics, such as enhanced senses and superhuman strength, it is possible for them to also have cybernetic enhancements more human-like.
Many people are able to have cybernetic improvements in their bodies. It is not uncommon to see them integrated into TV, movies and novels. Some are made up of adamantium, like Wolverine or Sabertooth, while others have implants that look more human.
Vietnam War veterans who lost arms in combat or suffered from Locked-In Syndrome were some of the first cyborgs. Johnny Ray, the first known cyborg in history, was a soldier who was able to communicate with the outside world thanks to an implanted brain.
He was a strong advocate of cyborgs being mainstreamed and helped popularize them. He is a cofounder of the Cyborg Foundation as well as a prominent Cyborg activist.
Kevin Warwick (emeritus professor of Cybernetics University of Reading) is another prominent cyborg researcher who uses a variety of cybernetic technology in his body. He wears a chip in his right arm that allows wireless connection to computers, robots and ultrasonic sound waves.
His technology can also assist people who have lost their senses as a result of illness, injury or degenerative diseases. His technology, called sensory substitution, replaces one of the main senses (eyes).
Neil Harbisson is another example of a real-life cyborg. He was born with colorblindness and can perceive colors using an antenna implanted in the brain. He is a Cyborg activist, and founded the Cyborg Foundation. This non-profit organization promotes cyborg rights as well as supports research into the topic.
In 2004, he received an implant that allowed him to perceive colors in a way beyond the normal range of humans. He also has a foot implant that allows him to sense earthquakes from any place on the planet via the Internet. He combines both technologies to create dance shows in which he uses the vibrations to create art.
Some cyborgs don't have a medical diagnosis and instead are born with new technologies, new senses and new abilities. Some are extremely talented artists and use their cyborg abilities as a way to inspire others to become Cyborgs.
The latest trends in cyborg technologies show that there are no limits to what technology can do. There are cybernetic implants that can capture pictures and videos. Cyborg tattoos can also be activated or turned off instantly to alter the appearance of their skin.