Abstract

The Global Brain Argument contends that many of us are, or will be, part of a global brain network that includes both biological and artificial intelligences (AIs), such as generative AIs with increasing levels of sophistication. Today’s internet ecosystem is but a hodgepodge of fairly unintegrated programs, but it is evolving by the minute. Over time, technological improvements will facilitate smarter AIs and faster, higher-bandwidth information transfer and greater integration between devices in the internet-of-things. The Global Brain (GB) Argument says that as these developments occur, humans will increasingly become part of one or more global brain networks. In this paper I lay out the argument and explore its implications, asking: what does this mean for the future of humanity? Is a GB here? What are the AI safety implications? Are those who are “wired in” cases of extended minds? While I cannot explore all of the implications of the argument, I hope this initial foray inspires further reflection. I believe that the future of human flourishing demands that we consider the implications of this emerging intelligence. We must study the phenomenon with care, for this intelligence may shape the future of life on Earth.