Topic Summary
The essence of Binary Thinking is centered on the idea that technology has profound effects on our brains, due to neuroplasticity. Because the repetition of behaviors strengthens certain synapses, while allowing other psychological processes to weaken over time, modern digital technology limits the depth of thinking that the average person can regularly access. Anyone with Internet access can quickly answer a vast range of questions in hurried searches, encouraging a rushed mentality when seeking information. The current trend of consuming information superficially, across a wide range of topics, does not necessarily make people less intelligent, however; we are still maturing in this era of human history, leaving certain questions about long-term psychological effects unanswered. It is difficult to predict how this trend will manifest in more obvious signs of mass psychological shifts, such as culture and politics. Universities have already done numerous studies, confirming computer and phone technologies’ impact on people’s attention spans. Because most people in developed, and many developing, countries have begun to rely on computers and smartphones on a daily basis, fewer behaviors are self-motivated. In essence, these technologies extend our senses, improve our lives, enrich communication and provide endless opportunities to enhance efficiency and convenience, but they also leave our minds open to more subtle, systematic and consistent manipulation.
As Nicholas Carr describes in his book, The Shallows, in humans’ efforts to enhance computer technology enough to create an Artificial Intelligence, capable of thinking at the level of a human being, our own intelligence has begun to shift in a direction that is more artificial. It is an idea that is difficult to imagine, except for when contemplating how a machine most of us carry in our pockets is facilitating a significant number of our memories, plans, navigation, calculations and more— tasks that our brains have evolved to handle over thousands of years. The reality is that many of us have arguably already become cyborgs, given our reliance on outsourcing so many tasks to a couple compact devices. This will soon be pushed even further with the advent of devices that connect directly to our brains. If we are to move on as an intelligent species capable of deep, nuanced thought, we must reanalyze how we teach future generations to approach a world where the line between technology and nature continues to blur. In our new digital landscape, it will only become more difficult to discern truth from falsehood and reality from the virtual world. Large tech companies that hold tremendous amounts of data will also have the power to facilitate many other fully automated services, eventually eliminating large job sectors, leaving masses unemployed. Without adaptation humanity itself could be drained of its culture and mutual reliance, turning instead towards a world of mass oppression and order, with a small, powerful elite class.
Why Now?
This topic is not only timely because of the quick rise of tech companies and devices we use regularly, but also because of our shift in global politics. Philosopher Yuval Noah Harari fears how governments can use data to “hack our minds.” Harari is quoted in The Guardian saying, “In recent years some of the smartest people in the world have worked on hacking the human brain in order to make you click on ads and sell you stuff. Now these methods are being used to sell you politicians and ideologies, too… If governments and corporations succeed in hacking the human animal, the easiest people to manipulate will be those who believe in free will.” While this is still mostly speculative, it is too dangerous a concept to ignore entirely. We must be conscious of these warnings as we proceed further into the depths of our digital era. At this point it is impossible to turn back, however, it is imperative that we move slowly and cautiously— two words that the digital era tends to resist greatly.
Why Me?
I feel that I am in a unique position to tell this story given my own background, access to academics/educators in related fields, and most importantly, my passion for this topic. My mother is a professor of behavioral neuroscience, and my father is a poet who teaches creative writing. I had a peculiar upbringing, having been heavily exposed to both scientific and artistic outlooks on the world. As a kid I grew up attending science conferences and poetry readings, offering me an appreciation for both technical and abstract perspectives. Being a college student in Los Angeles also puts me in close proximity to Silicon Valley and some of the leading experts on this topic. Age-wise, I am also on the cusp of “generation z,” ground zero for much of the research being done on the neurological effects of technology. I personally find myself pondering our society’s use of technology and question what the future will hold. This is not only a topic I am interested in producing a film about, but also one that I discuss at great length with friends, family and professors. I find it fascinating, but also deeply concerning, motivating me to share my apprehensions as urgently as possible.
If you would like to see some of my past work, please visit my website: https://www.peterberger.me/
What We Need
The money raised through this campaign will go towards production and post-production costs for the film. While my goal is $4,500, I understand that is ambitious and appreciate any funds donated towards this project. If this target is not met, do not fear, the film will certainly still get made! I also intend on applying to numerous grants, both within UCLA and in the larger scientific documentary funding community. If I am able to exceed my goal of $4,500 I will use that money to improve production quality by licensing better music and stock footage. I will also consider traveling outside of the state to interview more experts if possible. I can also use extra funds to help with additional marketing of the film in order to get it in front of as many eyes as possible.
You can view an itemized list of how the funds will be specifically used here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1yzKOtwG...
Project Timeline
This project is currently wrapping up its pre-production and research phase, as I now begin reaching out to potential subjects. A final list of interviewees, as well as scheduled shoot dates will be confirmed by January 14th, 2019. Principal shooting, which includes interviews, observational footage and some b-roll will be done between January 14th through February 25th. Additional shooting, as well as archival footage collection, will take place from February 26th through March 15th, as needed. Work with the composer will also begin in mid-February. The interview transcription and writing process will take place between February 25th and March 27th. Post-production will begin April 1st and continue through June 14th. I plan on having a rough cut done by May 1st, and picture locked by May 25th. Final score, sound editing and color correction will be completed in early June.
Other Ways You Can Help
I completely understand that not everyone is able to contribute to the project, even if you'd like to. If that is the case for you, please consider sharing this campaign with friends, family, coworkers, neighbors and anyone else you think might be interested. I am extremely passionate about this project, and hope to share my enthusiasm with as many people as possible!
