Human X Design: What Does It Truly Mean To Be Human?

“Everything we design in turn designs us back.” – Anne-Marie Willis

What does it truly mean to be human?

Many seem to be asking this age-old philosophical question these days. As advancements in technology continue to influence our lives and the world around us, our perceptions about who we truly are and what we have the potential to become are being contemplated through an ontological lens – and rightfully so. Metaphorically, who we become is a projection of our self-reflections. Just as happiness is said to be a virtue, a way of life, so may be the meaning and purpose of our species.

“Just as you grow into the world, the world grows into you. Not only do you occupy a certain place, but that place in turn occupies you. Its culture shapes the way you see the world, its language informs the way you think, its customs structure you as a social being.” – Costica Bradatan (Associate Professor of Humanities)

What is Ontological Design?

This introspective question is the reason why it’s imperative that society, beyond secular communities, are aware of and educated about the principles and prospects of Transhumanism – the merging of biology and technology to ultimately improve the human condition, enhance our lives, and cultivate an advanced civilization. While there have been many contributors in this technologically, scientifically, and philosophically progressive movement, it’s Eidos Montreal, developers of the Deus Ex franchise, who may lead the charge by partnering up with Open Bionics and composing ‘Human X Design’. Ladies and gentlemen, this is history in the making for Transhumanism and a new benchmark for the video game industry.

Augmented Future – Open Bionics Trailer

“Everything we’re doing is somehow a new step forward. We’re now defining the future.” – Andre Vu (Executive Brand Director at Eidos Montreal)

I won’t spoil the eye-opening and mind-expanding experience for you, but I will say this: From my perspective, Human X Design, in terms of content and execution, IS the most groundbreaking and inspiring documentary on Human Augmentation and Transhumanism to date. Watch it, research it, embrace it, and share it. The future of humanity could very well be shaped by it.

“Sometimes, you just have to let go and embrace what you’ve become.” – Adam Jensen (Deus Ex: Mankind Divided)

Human X Design (Full Conference) – by Eidos Montreal and Deus Ex: Mankind Divided

Be sure to check out the Human X Design documentary on Amazon, which is free with ads. And as you’re watching both the documentary and the conference above, the moderator had subsequently authored an ethical framework for human augmentation to go alongside it. You can read this ethical framework here.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided will be coming out on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One on August 23. Be sure to pre-order and grab your own copy soon.