The goal of Humanity+ is to support discussion and public awareness of emerging technologies, to defend the right of individuals in free and democratic societies to adopt technologies that expand human capacities, and to anticipate and propose solutions for the potential consequences of emerging technologies.
What is the Mission of Humanity+?
Humanity+ is an international nonprofit membership organization which advocates the ethical use of technology to expand human capacities. We support the development of and access to new technologies that enable everyone to enjoy better minds, better bodies and better lives. In other words, we want people to be better than well.
Where Did Humanity+ Come From?
Humanity+ was founded as the World Transhumanist Association (WTA) in 1998 by the philosophers Nick Bostrom Ph.D. and David Pearce. Its first task was organizing an international group of transhumanists to write the Transhumanist Declaration, published in 1998, and the Transhumanist Frequently Asked Questions, published in 1999. In 2002 Humanity+ incorporated as a 501c3 tax-exempt nonprofit organization headquartered in Connecticut in the United States. In 2008 the members of the WTA voted to adopt the “doing-business-as” name of Humanity+.
Who Belongs to Humanity+?
Approximately 6000 people belong to Humanity+ from more than 100 countries, from Afghanistan to Brazil to Egypt to The Philippines. Supporting and sustaining members elect the Board, and participate in WTA leadership and decision-making. WTA members also participate in more than two dozen chapters around the world, and in a dozen affiliated organizations.
What does Humanity+ Do?
Humanity+ (WTA) has three core programs of activity:
- Campaign for Rights of the Person
- Campaign for Longer, Better Lives
- Campaign for a Future Friendly Culture
How Can I Participate?
First, join Humanity+.
You may also enroll in one of our discussion lists and join one of our local H+ chapters, which can be found in countries and languages all over the world.
Also we can really use your financial support.
How is Humanity+ Governed?
Humanity+ is governed by its membership and by an elected ten-person Board of Directors. Half of the Board is elected annually for two year terms. Humanity+’s Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors.
How Can I Learn More About the Transhumanist Movement?
We can provide someone to answer questions on the transhumanist perspective to the media or to your group. Also, take a look at our Transhumanist Frequently Asked Questions document.
Why Should I Join Humanity+?
The stakes could hardly be higher. Emerging technologies raise profound scientific, technical, social, and ethical issues. Both present technologies, such as genetic engineering, information technology, and pharmaceuticals, as well as anticipated future capabilities, such as nanotechnology, machine intelligence, uploading, and space colonization, are all part of the transhumanist ambit. Plausible scenarios range from the extinction of intelligent life to a posthuman future that could be very wonderful and happy indeed.
We explore risks as well as benefits, with the ultimate aim of developing workable strategies and policies to enable societies and individuals to navigate the waters ahead.