On Relays and Switches
Kurzweil says there are five computational paradigm shifts: electro-mechanical switches, relays, vacuum tubes, transistors and integrated circuits (see here). However, relays ARE electro-mechanical switches, or at least they are very similar to electro-mechanical switches. Yet, Kurzweil elevates them to the status of a "paradigm". Conversely, Kurzweil lumps all of the enormous changes in the semiconductor industry in the last 35 years under one paradigm: integrated circuits.
The fact is, depending on your perspective, you could have just two paradigm shifts to cover the growth of computing (mechanical vs. electrical, for instance) or you could have hundreds of paradigm shifts.
Mr. Kurzweil makes up out of thin air, five. Why five? Because it makes it seem like something is happening. It generates the illusion of an inevitable march of progress into the future. In short, it helps to bolster the religion of Transhumanism.
The fact is, depending on your perspective, you could have just two paradigm shifts to cover the growth of computing (mechanical vs. electrical, for instance) or you could have hundreds of paradigm shifts.
Mr. Kurzweil makes up out of thin air, five. Why five? Because it makes it seem like something is happening. It generates the illusion of an inevitable march of progress into the future. In short, it helps to bolster the religion of Transhumanism.
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