Two rather amazing things happened in science this week. Actually, a lot of amazing things happened this week in science, a lot of amazing things happen in science every week, the pace of progress is staggering and the only thing that keeps the future (and I’m talking about the future like The Jetsons or Star Trek, not just the abstract idea that tomorrow is the future because, sequentially, it is one day further down the line from today) from arriving, like, tomorrow afternoon, is that people just can’t adjust that fast. Not even the cool kids.
There are two in particular I’d like to talk about, though, because they are related and it’s a perfect illustration of the double edged sword concept.
First, scientists using a 3D printer managed to create a fully functional artificial ear. Second, some bozo who likes guns used a 3D printer to create a working model, and posted instructions on the internet.
So much stuff happening, so fast
To me, the science still seems like magic, so I can’t get into that too much. It’s rather awesome that they grew an ear, though. (I assume the electronic components were extra). Deafness may be a thing of the past, a totally curable condition.
Blindness may be a bit more complex, but I’m sure we will get there.
The gun thing is a bit more problematic. No law against it yet, that’s true. Technology is advancing faster than the law can deal with it. Also, it’s going to make it really hard to do background checks, or have guns registered, when people can just make them themselves at home. Of course, you will still have to have a 3D printer, but I’m guessing every mob boss and every gang in America will have one of those pretty soon. You could outfit a small army, totally off the books.
That’s technology for ya. Some good, some bad.
www.gurukalehuru.com 