STS 403 Quiz 1

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Qmanjor
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  • 1/24 Questions

    Joel Garreau, in chapter one of Radical Evolution, says that "enhanced people":

    • Are not likely to appear until late in the 21st Century
    • Are already among us
    • Are unlikely to appear ever
    • Have already disappeared during the last century
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About This Quiz

STS 403 Quiz 1 explores key concepts from Joel Garreau's 'Radical Evolution,' focusing on GRIN technologies, the presence and impact of enhanced humans, and DARPA's role in technological advancements. This quiz assesses understanding of future technological impacts on society.

Technology Quizzes & Trivia

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  • 2. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 2 of Radical Evolution, discusses __________, an organization committed to radical and rapid technological change.

    • The department of homeland security

    • The defense advanced research projects agency

    • The naval special programs agency

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. The defense advanced research projects agency
    Explanation
    In chapter 2 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau discusses the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), an organization committed to radical and rapid technological change. DARPA is known for its groundbreaking research and development of advanced technologies for military use. It has played a significant role in the development of various technologies such as the internet, GPS, and stealth technology. Garreau highlights DARPA's role in driving innovation and shaping the future through its pursuit of cutting-edge technologies.

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  • 3. 

    In chapter 2 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau says that engineered human evolution:

    • Is in the works right now

    • Is a pipe dream

    • Has been tried and it failed

    • Is limited to defense uses exclusively

    Correct Answer
    A. Is in the works right now
    Explanation
    The correct answer suggests that engineered human evolution is currently being pursued or developed. This implies that there are ongoing efforts or advancements in the field of manipulating human evolution through technology or genetic engineering. It indicates that the idea of altering human evolution is not just a hypothetical concept but something actively being worked on in the present time.

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  • 4. 

    In chapter 3 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau says the fundamental mechanism driving "The Curve" is:

    • Human greed

    • Human ignorance

    • Exponential change

    • Market economics

    Correct Answer
    A. Exponential change
    Explanation
    The correct answer is exponential change. In the context of the book "Radical Evolution," Joel Garreau explains that "The Curve" refers to the rapid and exponential advancement of technology and its impact on society. This exponential change is driven by the acceleration of technological innovations and their subsequent effects on various aspects of human life. Garreau argues that this exponential change is fundamentally reshaping the world and poses significant challenges and opportunities for humanity.

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  • 5. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 4 of Radical Evolution, says that Ray Kurzweil is:

    • Relentlessly and fiercely optimistic about the future

    • Uncertain about the future

    • Uncaring about the future

    • Overall, pessimistic about the future

    Correct Answer
    A. Relentlessly and fiercely optimistic about the future
    Explanation
    In chapter 4 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau portrays Ray Kurzweil as someone who is relentlessly and fiercely optimistic about the future. This suggests that Kurzweil has a strong belief in the potential of technological advancements and their positive impact on society. Garreau's characterization implies that Kurzweil is enthusiastic and unwavering in his optimism, highlighting his hopeful outlook on the future.

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  • 6. 

    In Chapter 6 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau says that Jaron Lanier is best known for:

    • Developing the internet

    • Creating the first internet search engine

    • Inventing virtual reality

    • Developing internet trading

    Correct Answer
    A. Inventing virtual reality
    Explanation
    In Chapter 6 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau mentions that Jaron Lanier is best known for inventing virtual reality. This implies that Lanier played a significant role in the development and advancement of virtual reality technology.

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  • 7. 

    In chapter 4 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau says the core element of Kurzweil's thinking is that:

    • The curve of exponentially increasing technology is rising smoothly

    • The curve of exponentially increasing technology is decelerating

    • The curve of exponentially increasing technology is completed

    • The curve of exponentially increasing technology has reversed

    Correct Answer
    A. The curve of exponentially increasing technology is rising smoothly
    Explanation
    In chapter 4 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau explains that the core element of Kurzweil's thinking is that the curve of exponentially increasing technology is rising smoothly. This means that according to Kurzweil, technological advancements are not only increasing at an exponential rate but also doing so consistently without any significant deceleration or reversal. This belief in the smooth rise of technology is a fundamental aspect of Kurzweil's perspective on the future of innovation and its potential impact on society.

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  • 8. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 2 of Radical Evolution, says that DARPA researcher Michael Goldblatt has said, concerning the prospect of fundamentally altering human nature through his research, that:

    • Such change would violate his personal and professional moral codes

    • Such change would be an unintended consequence

    • Such change would never actually occur

    • Such change would be insignificant

    Correct Answer
    A. Such change would be an unintended consequence
    Explanation
    The correct answer suggests that DARPA researcher Michael Goldblatt believes that fundamentally altering human nature through his research would be an unintended consequence. This implies that Goldblatt does not intend or desire to change human nature, but rather acknowledges that it may happen unintentionally as a result of his research.

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  • 9. 

    In chapter one of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau says that the GRIN technologies refer to:

    • Genetics, Robotics, Information, and Nanotechnology

    • Geriatrics, Robotics, Information, and Nanotechnology

    • Genetics, Robotics, Intelligence, and Nanotechnology

    • Genetics, Robotics, Information, and Nuclear

    Correct Answer
    A. Genetics, Robotics, Information, and Nanotechnology
    Explanation
    In chapter one of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau introduces the concept of GRIN technologies, which stands for Genetics, Robotics, Information, and Nanotechnology. This term encompasses the four interconnected fields that are driving the transformative changes in society and technology. Geriatrics, Intelligence, and Nuclear are not mentioned in the context of GRIN technologies in the chapter, making the correct answer Genetics, Robotics, Information, and Nanotechnology.

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  • 10. 

    In chapter one of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau say the book tests three hypotheses. Which of the following is NOT one of those hypotheses?

    • We are riding a curve of exponential change

    • This change is unprecedented in human history

    • This change will replace existing political institutions with radically reorganized governing processes

    • This change is transforming human nature

    Correct Answer
    A. This change will replace existing political institutions with radically reorganized governing processes
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "This change will replace existing political institutions with radically reorganized governing processes." The book Radical Evolution tests three hypotheses, which are: 1) We are riding a curve of exponential change, 2) This change is unprecedented in human history, and 3) This change is transforming human nature. However, it does not specifically mention that this change will replace existing political institutions with radically reorganized governing processes.

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  • 11. 

    In chapter 3 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau says that Vernon Vinge is associated with the idea of:

    • The Singularity

    • Moore's Law

    • The Curve

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. The Singularity
    Explanation
    In chapter 3 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau mentions Vernon Vinge in association with the idea of "The Singularity." The Singularity refers to a hypothetical point in the future where technological progress becomes uncontrollable and irreversible, leading to significant changes in human civilization. This concept was popularized by Vinge in his essay "The Coming Technological Singularity," where he discusses the potential impact of advanced artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence. Therefore, the correct answer is "The Singularity."

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  • 12. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 4 of Radical Evolution, says that Ray Kurzweil:

    • Does not support efforts to dramatically extend life expectancy

    • Does not believe that life expectancy can be dramatically increased

    • Hopes to be among the first generation to experience dramatically extended life expectancy

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. Hopes to be among the first generation to experience dramatically extended life expectancy
    Explanation
    In chapter 4 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau mentions that Ray Kurzweil hopes to be among the first generation to experience dramatically extended life expectancy. This implies that Kurzweil supports efforts to extend life expectancy and believes that it can be dramatically increased.

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  • 13. 

    In chapter 7 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau say that the "transcend" position:

    • Contradicts the prevail scenario

    • Builds on the prevail scenario

    • Proves the prevail scenario

    • Is irrelevent to the prevail scenario

    Correct Answer
    A. Builds on the prevail scenario
    Explanation
    The "transcend" position, as explained by Joel Garreau in chapter 7 of Radical Evolution, builds on the prevail scenario. This means that the "transcend" position takes into account and expands upon the prevailing scenario or viewpoint. It does not contradict or prove the prevail scenario, nor is it irrelevant to it. Instead, it adds new perspectives or possibilities to the prevailing scenario, enhancing and building upon it.

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  • 14. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 3 of Radical Evolution, says that "Moore's Law" refers to:

    • Exponential rates of change in computer technology

    • Exponential rates of change in nanotechnology

    • Exponential rates of change in genetics

    • Exponential rates of change in robotics technology

    Correct Answer
    A. Exponential rates of change in computer technology
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "Exponential rates of change in computer technology." This is because Joel Garreau, in chapter 3 of Radical Evolution, specifically mentions that "Moore's Law" refers to the exponential rates of change in computer technology. Moore's Law is a principle that states that the number of transistors on a microchip doubles approximately every two years, leading to exponential growth in computing power.

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  • 15. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 5 of Radical Evolution, says Francis Fukuyama fears:

    • That, in an effort to change some basic characteristics of human nature, we will make ourselves scarcely recognizable

    • That we will allow highly undesirable characteristics to persist in human nature

    • That we will fail to change some of the worst, most destructive aspects of human nature

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. That, in an effort to change some basic characteristics of human nature, we will make ourselves scarcely recognizable
    Explanation
    Joel Garreau, in chapter 5 of Radical Evolution, discusses Francis Fukuyama's fears regarding the potential consequences of attempting to change certain fundamental aspects of human nature. Fukuyama is concerned that in our pursuit of altering these characteristics, we may unintentionally transform ourselves to the point where we become unrecognizable as humans. This implies that the changes we make could be so drastic that they fundamentally redefine what it means to be human.

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  • 16. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 5 of Radical Evolution, says that Bill Joy's version of the Hell scenario, the most dangerous development is:

    • That for the first time, abuses of the GRIN technologies are unstoppable

    • That for the first time, abuses of the GRIN technologies are within reach of individuals or small groups

    • That for the first time, abuses of the GRIN technologies are inevitable

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. That for the first time, abuses of the GRIN technologies are within reach of individuals or small groups
    Explanation
    According to Joel Garreau in chapter 5 of Radical Evolution, the most dangerous development in Bill Joy's version of the Hell scenario is that abuses of the GRIN technologies are within reach of individuals or small groups. This implies that previously, the potential for abuse was limited to larger organizations or entities, but now, with the advancement of GRIN technologies, even individuals or small groups have the capability to misuse them. This raises concerns about the potential consequences and risks associated with such accessibility.

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  • 17. 

    In Chapter 5 of Radical Evolution, Joel Gareau says that Bill Joy has a reputation in silicon valley as:

    • Creative and impulsive

    • Thoughtful and level headed

    • Angry and impulsive

    • Angry and level headed

    Correct Answer
    A. Thoughtful and level headed
    Explanation
    In Chapter 5 of Radical Evolution, Joel Gareau mentions that Bill Joy has a reputation in Silicon Valley as "thoughtful and level-headed." This suggests that Bill Joy is known for being calm, rational, and careful in his thinking and decision-making processes. This reputation implies that he is not impulsive or easily swayed by emotions, but rather takes the time to consider different perspectives and make well-thought-out choices.

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  • 18. 

    In chapter 6 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau say that Lanier uses the difference between ________ and ________ to explain why he thinks humans may prevail.

    • Infinite games and finite games

    • Zero-sum games and gift games

    • Trading games and gift games

    • Reality-based games and fantasy based games

    Correct Answer
    A. Infinite games and finite games
    Explanation
    In chapter 6 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau states that Lanier uses the difference between infinite games and finite games to explain why he thinks humans may prevail.

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  • 19. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 6 of Radical Evolution, says that Lanier believes that humans may prevail because of:

    • Increased bridging of the interpersonal gap

    • The impacts of internet commerce

    • The entertainment value of virtual reality

    • The imposition of cultural and social values on GRIN technologies

    Correct Answer
    A. Increased bridging of the interpersonal gap
    Explanation
    Lanier believes that humans may prevail because of increased bridging of the interpersonal gap. This means that as technology advances, it has the potential to bring people closer together and enhance communication between individuals. By overcoming the barriers of distance and time, technology can facilitate connections and understanding among people, ultimately leading to a stronger human presence and influence in the world.

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  • 20. 

    In chapter 5 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau says that, in order to tell if an enhanced individual was still human, he would apply:

    • The Humanity test

    • The Shakespeare test

    • The Sympathy test

    • The Empathy test

    Correct Answer
    A. The Shakespeare test
    Explanation
    The Shakespeare test would be applied by Joel Garreau to determine if an enhanced individual is still human. This suggests that the test involves evaluating the individual's level of creativity, intelligence, and ability to appreciate and understand complex human emotions and experiences, as Shakespeare's works are known for their deep exploration of the human condition.

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  • 21. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 6 of Radical Evolution, says that, when comparing the thinking of Kurzweil, Joy, and Lanier, Lanier:

    • Agrees more with Joy than Kurzweil

    • Agrees more with Kurzweil than Joy

    • Is off in an entirely other territory

    • Thinks that Kurzweil and Joy are not so far apart

    Correct Answer
    A. Is off in an entirely other territory
    Explanation
    The correct answer suggests that Lanier's thinking is completely different from both Kurzweil and Joy. This means that Lanier does not agree more with either Kurzweil or Joy and is not in the same territory as them. Lanier's ideas and perspectives are unique and distinct from the other two thinkers.

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  • 22. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 4 of Radical Evolution, says that Marvin Minsky:

    • Takes the Hell scenario seriously

    • Thinks the Hell scenario is a certainty

    • Rejects the Hell scenario

    • Does not know about the Hell scenario

    Correct Answer
    A. Takes the Hell scenario seriously
    Explanation
    Joel Garreau, in chapter 4 of Radical Evolution, states that Marvin Minsky takes the Hell scenario seriously. This implies that Minsky considers the possibility of a future where advanced technology leads to negative consequences or a dystopian outcome. Minsky does not reject the idea of the Hell scenario but rather acknowledges its seriousness and potential implications.

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  • 23. 

    Joel Garreau, in chapter 7 of Radical Evolution, says that the transcend proposition rests on three premises. Which of the following is NOT one of those premises?

    • The movement toward "post-human" existence is inevitable

    • The advantages of the GRIN technologies suggests that they will continue to advance at an ever increasing rate

    • Many of the GRIN technologies can alter basics of the human condition

    • There will be unintended consequences from the application of these technologies

    Correct Answer
    A. The advantages of the GRIN technologies suggests that they will continue to advance at an ever increasing rate
    Explanation
    The given answer is not one of the premises because it does not pertain to the idea of the transcend proposition. The three premises mentioned by Joel Garreau are that the movement toward "post-human" existence is inevitable, many of the GRIN technologies can alter basics of the human condition, and there will be unintended consequences from the application of these technologies. The statement about the advantages of GRIN technologies advancing at an ever-increasing rate is not mentioned as one of the premises.

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  • 24. 

    In chapter 7 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau says that "transhumanism" is:

    • An effort among philosophers and ethicists to infuse technological change

    • A form of trading in human beings

    • A movement interested in engineered evolution

    • The condition of being surpassed by enhanced humans

    Correct Answer
    A. An effort among philosophers and ethicists to infuse technological change
    Explanation
    In chapter 7 of Radical Evolution, Joel Garreau discusses the concept of "transhumanism." He describes it as an effort among philosophers and ethicists to infuse technological change. This suggests that transhumanism is not a form of trading in human beings or the condition of being surpassed by enhanced humans, but rather a movement interested in using technology to enhance and evolve humanity.

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  • Current Version
  • Mar 16, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • May 07, 2011
    Quiz Created by
    Qmanjor
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