Leadership in the Era of the Human Singularity: New Demands, New Skills, New Response
Abstract
The "human singularity" refers to the integration of technology into the human body so that levels of mental acuity and physical ability eclipse all previous known levels. Because of the unique character of these enhanced human specimens, they will represent a singularity in human history, something unique and to which a new set of laws may well apply. A broad front of converging core technologies, such as nanotechnology, bioengineering, supercomputing, materials development, and robotics, may make such individuals commonplace by 2030; indeed, significant steps have already been taken to achieve this goal, and the singularity could arrive earlier. The rise of the singularity and the resulting Enhanced Singular Individuals (henceforth referred to as "ESIs"), capable of outsized mental and physical performance, will have a major impact on the practice of leadership, a major factor in determining whether a society succeeds or fails. With the arrival of the singularity, society will experience novel models of leadership and its associated skills. It will require new types of training to address new leadership challenges as society learns more about ESIs' character and capabilities. It is important to identify who is likely to become an ESI and how, their relationship to the rest of the population, and the roles they will play within organizations. It is critical to have a working context and vocabulary by which to address leadership issues. The 9-Phase Leadership Model contains a precise vocabulary and framework for analyzing how social and technological change affect the function and practice of leadership. This inquiry aims to initiate a more searching appraisal of the social implications of the coming singularity, its impact on the nature and practice of leadership, the social dimensions consequent upon a shift in leadership norms, and the type of preparation that institutions can implement in anticipation of this intriguing and unique set of future developments.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA510097
Entities
People
- Barton Kunstler
Organizations
- United States Army War College