In “How We Became Posthuman: Virtual Bodies in Cybernetics, Literature, and Informatics,” N. Katherine Hayles offers a profound and insightful examination of the evolving relationship between humans and technology. Through an interdisciplinary approach, Hayles explores the concept of the posthuman, delving into the ways in which cybernetics, literature, and informatics have reshaped our understanding of what it means to be human.
Hayles begins by tracing the historical development of cybernetics, a field that emerged in the mid-20th century, focusing on the study of communication and control in animals, humans, and machines. She highlights the contributions of key figures such as Norbert Wiener, who is often credited as the father of cybernetics, and examines how their work laid the groundwork for contemporary discussions about artificial intelligence, robotics, and virtual reality.
One of the central themes in “How We Became Posthuman” is the notion that the boundaries between humans and machines are becoming increasingly blurred. Hayles argues that the rise of digital technologies and the proliferation of information networks have led to a reconfiguration of human identity. In this new paradigm, the body is no longer seen as the essential locus of identity; instead, information and data play a crucial role in defining who we are. This shift challenges traditional notions of embodiment and raises important questions about consciousness, agency, and the nature of reality.
Hayles introduces the concept of the posthuman, which she defines as a vision of the human that is deeply intertwined with technology. The posthuman subject is characterised by a fluid and dynamic relationship with digital environments, where the boundaries between the physical and the virtual are constantly negotiated. This perspective challenges the humanist ideal of the autonomous, rational individual and suggests that our identities are increasingly shaped by our interactions with technology.
The book also explores the portrayal of posthuman themes in literature and popular culture. Hayles analyses a range of literary works that grapple with the implications of cybernetic and informatic technologies, from William Gibson’s cyberpunk novels to Philip K. Dick’s speculative fiction. She argues that these texts offer valuable insights into the cultural and philosophical dimensions of the posthuman condition, highlighting both the potential benefits and the ethical dilemmas associated with technological advancements.
Another key aspect of Hayles’ analysis is the role of informatics, or the study of information processing, in shaping our understanding of the posthuman. She examines how the rise of digital media and the proliferation of data have transformed our cognitive processes and ways of knowing. Hayles suggests that the posthuman condition is marked by a shift from a print-based culture to a digital one, where information is increasingly fragmented and distributed across networks.
Throughout “How We Became Posthuman,” Hayles emphasises the importance of critical engagement with technology. She warns against both uncritical embrace and outright rejection of technological advancements, advocating instead for a nuanced understanding of the ways in which technology mediates our experiences and shapes our identities. Hayles calls for a more inclusive and ethical approach to the development and deployment of digital technologies, one that recognises the complex interplay between humans and machines.
In conclusion, N. Katherine Hayles’ “How We Became Posthuman: Virtual Bodies in Cybernetics, Literature, and Informatics” offers a compelling exploration of the intersections between technology, identity, and culture. By tracing the historical development of cybernetics and examining its implications for contemporary society, Hayles provides a nuanced and thought-provoking analysis of the posthuman condition. Her work challenges us to rethink our relationship with technology and to consider the ethical and philosophical questions that arise in an increasingly digital world. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in the future of humanity and the evolving nature of human identity.