Harari's Homo Deus: Fairytales for the Highly Educated

Yuval Noah Harari's book, Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow, became an instant bestseller worldwide after its publication in 2016. In it, the Israeli historian and philosopher explores the future of humanity in a world dominated by technology, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. Harari argues that we are on the verge of a new era in which humanity, armed with these new technologies, will evolve into "Homo Deus" — a godlike species capable of manipulating life itself.

While Harari's vision may seem compelling, it is also highly speculative. Critics argue that Homo Deus presents a deterministic view of history and technological development that leaves little room for human agency or ethical considerations. This criticism resonates with many readers who feel that Harari's ideas, while fascinating, are more like fairytales for the highly educated — imaginative, but ultimately unfounded.

The Myth of Predictability

One of the main critiques of Harari's work is its tendency to treat the future as something predictable and controllable. By relying heavily on historical determinism, Harari suggests that certain technological developments are inevitable. However, history has repeatedly shown that human development is unpredictable and influenced by countless variables. From economic crises to pandemics, geopolitical shifts, and social movements, the future is shaped by a complex interplay of factors that are far from certain.

Moreover, Harari's analysis often overlooks the role of human creativity and resilience. While it is true that technology can greatly influence society, it is also true that humans have the capacity to shape their own destinies. This capacity for self-determination is something that many readers feel is missing from Homo Deus.

A Lack of Ethical Perspective

Another point of contention is Harari's lack of ethical perspective. In his enthusiasm for technological advancement, Harari sometimes seems to downplay the ethical implications of these developments. For example, his discussion of artificial intelligence and biotechnology is primarily focused on their potential benefits, such as increased efficiency and longevity, rather than the potential risks, such as loss of privacy, autonomy, and inequality.

This lack of ethical consideration is problematic because it suggests a worldview in which technology is seen as an end in itself rather than a means to achieve human well-being. In a world where technological advancements are often driven by profit motives, it is important to ask critical questions about who benefits from these developments and who might be left behind.

Conclusion

While Homo Deus offers a provocative vision of the future, it is also important to read it critically. Harari's ideas, while fascinating, are not without their flaws. By presenting a deterministic view of history and technological development, and by neglecting the ethical dimensions of these developments, Harari's work risks being more fiction than fact — a fairytale for the highly educated. As we look to the future, it is essential to remain critical and reflective, questioning the assumptions that underpin our visions of tomorrow.

Note: The article titled "Harari's Homo Deus: Fairytales for the Highly Educated," was published in 2020 by the Humanistisch Verbond (Humanist Association) in the Netherlands. This translation conveys the key arguments and critiques discussed in the original article.