Cybernetics or Semantics?

[myrthman]

Jeff got me hooked on LiveScience. Here's an interesting read that cross-examines fiction and science, seeking to define "cyborg."

"Cyborg" = cybernetic organism

One thought I had was that the tech involved must be dated post-1948, which, according to Dictionary.com, was when the word "cybernetic" was first coined. This nullifies the piano example but establishes quite well the hearing aid and Bluetooth examples.

What say you, dear explorers of the realm beyond: what exactly is a cyborg?

Link: www.livescience.com/technology/cyborg-future-human-halo-101207.html

[metalikhan]

The definition allows for a broader spectrum than what most folks ever consider, although I've heard plenty of older people joke about being bionic men/women when they give an organ recital about their hearing aids, joint replacements, pacemakers, etc.

I think the most widespread idea of a cyborg is the human physically merged with robotic/mechanical components as opposed to the human wearing or using tools (at any level of technology). It becomes a matter of common usage and convention rather than actual definition.

When I write about anything involving a cyborg, I tend to stay with the common usage rather than try to use my story to educate readers about the actual definition. (Maybe that story just hasn't occurred to me yet. )

My 2 pennies.

[Heather Titus]

I always thought it was a human who's leg/arm/whatever part was robotic. Although I did read one book where "cyborg" referred to a human who had a device implanted in their brain that let one man control everything they did.

[myrthman]

Saw this video tonight and it reminded me of this thread. Looks like Luke Skywalker's artificial hand isn't that far away.

community.myvoa.com/_Bionic-Arm-Can-Feel/video/1563621/45137.html

[Andy]

51% or more of their physical body composed of inorganic materials?? If it's less than that, you're a 6 million dollar man.