Maybe we’ll start with some metaphors/similes.

Nature is like a ___________________

Science is like a __________________

Technology is like ________________________________.

Then, we’ll read Ray Kurzweil’s “Reinventing Technology.”

1. What is the “Singularity?”
2. Why would it be a good thing?
3. What evidence does Kuzweil present to suggest that the Singularity will happen?
4. What are some of the ethical issues that Kurzweil suggests might result from this?
5. What do you think? Should we fear the Singularity? Is it unlikely to happen? Why do you think so?

Next, I want to talk about our next assignment: 30 Futures. Next, I’ll ask table groups to do some searching and come up with at least one more possible future. We’ll add these on to the 30 futures wiki.

Then, it’s AP test time. We’ll explore the wonders of the AP rhetorical analysis essay. Here is the test. The Scoring Guide. The Anchors.

Finally, you get a copy of Francis Bacon’s The Four Idols. We might get a head start with the reading, but take notes so that at least you understand the nature of the 4 idols.

Image Credit: Future Hi