Chapter 1: Introduction to Xenobots

The African Clawed Frog has played a pivotal role in the creation of xenobots, a remarkable innovation in the realm of robotics. Interestingly, while humans have only two sex chromosomes, these frogs possess four, sparking fascinating discussions around gender identity. Vive la différence! (Phys.org)

“Aha!” exclaimed the microbiologist.

What happens when a molecular biologist, armed with a supercomputer, AI software, embryonic frog genetic material, and ample funding, gets to work? The result isn’t merely a quirky individual but something far more intimidating:

Meet Xenopus laevis, an organism crafted by artificial intelligence. Click the link to witness them perform the "Hello World Hustle." For those unfamiliar, "Hello World" signifies the traditional first output for new programmers. (NY Times)

What makes these tiny entities noteworthy? They are “xenobots”—robots composed entirely of organic materials. Lacking wires, circuit boards, and batteries, their abilities are currently limited to basic functions like movement and sustenance. Yet, they are undeniably alive. Just as historical technological breakthroughs such as Ben Franklin's kite experiment or the Wright brothers' inaugural flight served as mere proof-of-concept, these xenobots symbolize a significant leap into unknown territories.

The Tufts University team, led by Dr. Douglas Blackiston, envisions applications ranging from microplastic removal in oceans to drug delivery targeting tumors and even cleaning plaque from arteries. Interestingly, the lifespan of xenobots is intentionally restricted by the yolk they consume; once their nourishment is exhausted, they die and decompose, leaving no waste behind.

While these prospects are intriguing, the Tufts team may be underestimating their potential. Consider extremophiles that thrive in extreme conditions or tardigrades that endure the vacuum of space. All share a common thread: genetic material, which could be harnessed for xenobot creation.

The possibilities are mind-boggling: xenobots capable of functioning in diverse environments on Earth or even in outer space. Instead of intricate construction, these organisms could be grown for specific tasks, requiring only nutrition sourced from a growth medium.

Imagine strolling into a supermarket and purchasing a can of xenobots designed to clean your bathroom tiles, eliminate carpet stains, or maintain your septic system. Marketing departments would have a field day crafting catchy slogans and brand names.

However, a significant concern looms.

The Can of Xenobots: A Pandora's Box

“Ahem,” a voice interjects from the back, “I’m Pandora, and thanks for releasing me from my box. But don’t expect to put me back in.”

You might be curious about the “Iron Laws of Technological Innovation.” They originate from Ralph Waldo Emerson's adage: “If a man can make a better mouse trap, though he builds his house in the woods, the world will make a beaten path to his door.”

In today's context, we must add several crucial observations:

1. Corporatists, ethicists, philosophers, and lawyers will eagerly pursue that path.
2. If a new technology offers military advantages, it will be developed and deployed.

The ethical implications surrounding robotics have gained traction since Isaac Asimov's Three Laws of Robotics in the 1940s. However, back then, the concept of Artificial Intelligence was non-existent, and even present-day AI lacks self-awareness and true sentience.

Today's supercomputers, as well as the emerging quantum computers, are entirely inorganic, constructed from materials like steel and silicon. While they can simulate learning, understanding, or feeling remains a distant prospect.

In contrast, xenobots arise from a different primordial soup. Do they possess nervous systems? If not, can they evolve one, given their embryonic origins? If they do have nervous systems, when will they start to feel or think? Should they be granted rights akin to those of animals or even humans?

The military implications are equally alarming, especially in an era dominated by CRISPR technology. Picture a scenario where a can of "Chef Xen-o-Bot" is unleashed in a major city, leading to the release of toxic gases from sewers and toilets, or a reservoir contaminated to inflict harm on the unsuspecting population. This scenario could redefine the phrase “military arms race.”

Not everyone needs to be a technophobic Luddite to recognize the potential risks. In the cartoon below, Randall Munroe — the creator of XKCD — commented on robotic advancements, which equally applies to xenobots:

Randall Munroe's commentary on robotics is spot on. (xkcd.com)

Nevertheless, Pandora is out of the box, and there's no turning back. Research and development of xenobots will proceed, irrespective of global scientific community condemnation—look no further than ongoing studies in human genome modification in China, including efforts to create "biologically-enhanced soldiers," according to John Ratcliffe, the current Director of National Intelligence (a claim yet to be substantiated).

In conclusion, xenobots and biological modifications are already part of our reality. There’s no reverting to the past; the only way forward is to navigate this terrain wisely, promoting beneficial research while regulating development to mitigate potential dangers.

Chapter 2: The Future of Xenobots

In this video titled "DNS: VIRTUAL HUMANS: NEON," we explore the advancements in AI and robotics, shedding light on the future implications of these technologies.