The word "extropian" is spelled with the letter "e" followed by "x", "t", "r", "o", "p", "i" and "a", with the stress placed on the second syllable. This phonetic transcription can be represented as /ɛkˈstroʊpiən/. It is a term used in extropianism, a transhumanist philosophy that advocates for the use of technology to enhance human intelligence, health and lifespan. The spelling of this word may seem unusual, but it reflects the origins of the term which was coined by Max More in the 1990s.
Extropian is a term used to describe an individual who adheres to the philosophical ideology of extropianism. Extropianism is a futurist movement that emphasizes the pursuit of continuous progress and improvement in all facets of life, with particular focus on technological advancements and human enhancement.
An extropian is someone who is highly optimistic about the potential of technology and science to enhance human life and overcome limitations. They believe in the possibility of a future where humans can surpass their current physical, intellectual, and emotional limitations through the application of scientific knowledge and technological innovations. Extropians envision a post-human society where individuals have the ability to extend their lifespans, enhance their cognitive abilities, and experience an overall improvement in their well-being.
Extropians actively promote transhumanism, which advocates for the use of emerging technologies to enhance human abilities and extend the boundaries of what it means to be human. They encourage the exploration and development of technologies such as genetic engineering, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality, among others. Extropians believe that these advancements have the potential to liberate humanity from the constraints of biology and enable individuals to achieve unimaginable heights of physical and intellectual capabilities.
In summary, an extropian is an individual who strongly embraces the principles of extropianism, advocating for the application of technology and science to continuously improve and enhance the human condition in all its aspects.
The word "extropian" is derived from the combination of two terms: "extropy" and "humanitarian".
1. Extropy: The term "extropy" was coined by the philosopher Max More in the 1980s. It is a combination of the prefix "exo-" (meaning "outward" or "beyond") and the Greek word "tropos" (meaning "turn" or "change"). Extropy refers to a concept that goes beyond traditional ideas of progress or improvement, emphasizing a proactive and expanding approach to human potential, adaptation, and exploration.
2. Humanitarian: The term "humanitarian" traces its roots back to the Latin word "humanitas", which can be translated as "human nature" or "humanity". In modern usage, it refers to actions or principles aimed at promoting human welfare, compassion, and the alleviation of suffering.