Story of Technology: How We Got Here and What the Future Holds

Story of Technology: How We Got Here and What the Future Holds

A leading technology expert examines ways to manage the rapid proliferation of technology and come to grips with its pervasive influence. Technology--always a key driver of historical change--is transforming society as never before and at a far more rapid pace. This book takes the reader on a journey into what the author identifies as the central organizing construct for the future of civilization, the continued proliferation of technology. And he challenges us to consider how to think about technology to ensure that we humans, and not the products of our invention, remain in control of our destinies? In this informative and insightful examination, Dr. Daniel M. Gerstein--who brings vast operational, research, and academic experience to the subject--proposes a method for gaining a better understanding of how technology is likely to evolve in the future. He identifies the attributes that a future successful technology should seek to emulate and the pitfalls that a technology developer should try to avoid. The aim is to bring greater clarity to the impact of technology on individuals and society. In particular, he considers three technologies now converging that will shape the future: biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and the "internet of things." He asks: Will we continue to develop new technologies in these fields merely because basic research shows that we can, or should we first consider the likely effects of these technologies on the quality of life at the individual, societal, and global levels? Dr. Gerstein makes a compelling case that rational and informed evolution of our technological options is the best course for ensuring a brighter future. "A must-read. As a specialist in both national security and technology, Daniel M. Gerstein is uniquely qualified to explain the societal changes occurring within the United States and across the globe. He expertly describes the ongoing competition taking place in research and development centers worldwide. In doing so, he emphasizes the importance of getting it right—that is, promoting science and technology that will lead to even greater advances while also ensuring that the future remains friendly for later generations.” Joseph I. Lieberman, senator from Connecticut (1989–2013) “Much of the 21st-century world is enabled, structured, or defined by technology. Gerstein offers a highly readable history and analysis of technology, explored through his own experiences as a military officer, a senior civilian government official, and a private citizen. Rich in anecdotes and examples, this book provides expert and nonexpert readers with a clear explanation of both where technology comes from, and how to smooth the path from scientific discovery to user-friendly applications. Finally, Gerstein makes some eminently reasonable recommendations about how we might more responsibly manage the powerful, dual-use, and disruptive advancements that will surely be part of our future.” Tara O’Toole, MD, MPH, senior fellow and executive vice president at In-Q-Tel and former undersecretary of the DHS Science and Technology Directorate “Gerstein brings a unique perspective to The Story of Technology, as both a national security expert and a technologist. He examines, in a compelling fashion, the inextricable link between humans and technological advancement—and specifically how the latter has granted America security, economic, and societal advantages. But he also cautions, rightly, that many of the foundations on which these advantages have been built are eroding, threatening our interests and perhaps even redefining what it means to be human. This book is a must-read for our national leaders, technology specialists, and general readers alike.” General David Petraeus, US Army (ret.), former commander of the troop surge in Iraq, US Central Command, and Coalition Forces in Afghanistan, and former director of the CIA “For decades, computer power doubled every eighteen months, to the point that the internet and smartphones have practically become extensions of our bodies. Now the power of biotechnology is doubling just as fast, bringing with it not only new medical breakthroughs but also rogue scientists who are experimenting with altering the human genome. All the while, a tidal wave of artificial intelligence rolls toward us. Gerstein helps us understand how we got here, what may be coming next, and how we might cope with it.” Christopher Chyba, professor of astrophysics and international affairs, Princeton University “The clearest, most comprehensive overview of technology, and the government’s role in developing it, that I’ve seen. Rich with insights from Gerstein’s personal experiences in the military and in the Department of Homeland Security, it’s a must-read for entrepreneurs looking for traction with the government, and for anyone seeking to understand what technology’s all about.” Gen. Wesley K. Clark, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander