X-Message-Number: 4142
Date: Mon, 3 Apr 1995 10:21:38 -0500 (CDT)
From: N E U R O M A N C E R <>
Subject: SCI.CRYONICS Re: "Paranormal" Phenomena

I don't believe in so-called "paranormal" phenomena simply because the word
"paranormal"  infers processes alien to our universe.  If an event occurs,
however strange, existing science must expand to accommodate it.

As for the cryonic preservation of a human "soul," I understand Robert 
Ettinger's skepticism (re. the identity of uploads).  Consciousness is a 
vast and bewildering frontier in its own right, and certain research indicates
that awareness may not be confined to the wet lump we call the "brain."
Could it be possible that consciousness exists as a physical dimension, at
right angles to the fourth (time)?  If so, perhaps highly evolved organisms
merely "tap" into this all-pervading matrix.  Such a model sheds light on
instances of precognition, out-of-body experiences, telepathy, and even
so-called alien abduction.

Could a machine designed to house the synaptical matrix of a human brain
access this universal commodity?  I believe it could, if sufficiently
advanced.  However, there still exists doubt as to whether the upload was
truly the "reincarnation" of the human subject.

Metaphysics aside, I believe an uploaded individual--while not necessarily
the spiritual equivelant to its organic precursor--could still function as a 
useful member of society, maybe even accessing modes of awareness generally
unreachable to the human population.

I foresee a kind of psychic Turing test being developed when neurological
uploads become reality (and they will, eventually).  The  parameters of such
a test need to be very well realized and refined before scientists harbor
enough nerve to denounce (or applaud) an upload's status as a thinking
individual.

Mac Tonnies 

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