In his latest work, “Ukidanje čovjeka” (“The Abolition of Man”), author Željko Rutović addresses profound issues surrounding human identity in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. The book highlights a critical societal crisis, wherein individuals are increasingly reduced to mere data points, algorithms, and numbers. Rutović critiques the rise of technology as a governing force and its impact on human autonomy, empathy, and free will.
Rutović argues that the current age is characterized by a pervasive technospheric environment, which has led to a radical shift in the human experience. He emphasizes that the integration of hybrid technologies, predictive algorithms, and biometric controls has severely threatened human individuality and freedom. In this context, he asserts, individuals have become more like data rather than possessing true autonomy, with their free will becoming a rare exception.
Technological Challenges and Human Experience
The author contends that the relentless advance of technology has created a reality where human beings navigate a form of non-existence. This phenomenon is perpetuated by the spectacle of virtuality, social media, and algorithmic influence, blurring the lines between human and machine, truth and illusion, freedom and control. Rutović maintains that contemporary society has witnessed a decline in critical thought and self-awareness, leading to a dangerous disconnection from the essence of being human.
Rutović elaborates on the implications of this transformation, stating that human beings are increasingly relegated to the status of mere commodities, subject to manipulation by multinational corporations. These organizations utilize sophisticated tools to influence consumer behavior, thereby undermining individual self-awareness and critical thinking. He stresses that this trend has culminated in a society where individuals are easily controlled and guided by corporate agendas.
A Call for Reflection and Dialogue
The book serves as a call to action, urging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about the current state of humanity. Rutović emphasizes the necessity for a dialogue regarding what it means to be human in an age dominated by technology and artificial intelligence. He expresses concern over the lack of substantial discourse on these pressing issues, which he believes has led to a paradox where individuals willingly accept their own diminishing existence.
While “Ukidanje čovjeka” does not claim to provide definitive answers, it encourages readers to reflect on their roles and responsibilities within this evolving landscape. Rutović hopes to stimulate a civilizational dialogue that addresses the profound questions surrounding human identity, ethics, and the societal implications of technological advancements. He asserts that the book aims to reaffirm the importance of critical thought, allowing for a re-examination of the human condition in a world increasingly influenced by machines.
In conclusion, Rutović’s work serves as a timely reminder of the challenges posed by technological progress. By raising awareness of the potential dangers of a society that prioritizes efficiency over humanity, he invites readers to reclaim their agency and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of human identity in an increasingly automated world.
