Technohumanism

Navigate the interface of IP and transformative technologies that can augment human capabilities, both in science fiction and emerging reality with Co-hosts, Shareholders, and Intellectual Property attorneys Michael Snyder and Joseph Gushue.  If you're interested in intellectual property, bioethical dilemmas, the future of technology, or just love a good legal quandary set against a backdrop of pop culture, this episode is tailored for you. The hosts draw upon well-known figures such as DC Comics' Cyborg, Marvel's Winter Soldier, and the Borg from Star Trek to frame the discussion. They then discuss William Gibson in Neuromancer and the "ahead of its time" film adaptation Johnny Mnemonic, starring Keanu Reeves. Complexities around the patenting of bioengineered life forms and examining what distinguishes bioengineered entities (like synthetic insulin) from unpatentable naturally occurring elements are discussed. This includes Neurolink chips, currently safeguarded by patents, which hold the promise of revolutionary medical treatments and cognitive enhancements. Michael and Joe also highlight on questions of inventorship in an era where human augmentation might become a source of creativity or innovation. The ripples of this technological integration are touched on by principles outlined in the Patent Act and Copyright Act, sparking a debate on the intersections between legal protocols for artificial intelligence and looming human technology augmentation. As Joe anticipates the normalization of AR and VR technologies with the introduction of Apple Vision Pro, this conversation underscores the significance for pioneers to bravely adopt—and adapt to—these emerging innovations. Simultaneously, the episode ponders the legal frameworks that have yet to fully grapple with such advancements.  So, put on your thinking caps, open a window in your Apple Vision Pro, or turn on your Neuralink Chips and stay curious about the future of IP and technology! Timestamps: 01:19 Defining Techno-Humanism  02:36 Exploring human-machine combination in comic book characters 06:58 Star Trek and The Borg Collective 09:29 Influence of William Gibson on Science Fiction 15:12 Blade Runner (1982) 20:04 Augmenting Human Bodies with Technology and Patenting Life Forms 29:34 Final Thoughts – Resistance is Futile  For full show notes and to explore more episodes, please visit www.vklaw.com/newsroom-podcasts. You can stay connected with us on Facebook, Linkedin or Twitter, and Instagram using the handle @volpeandkoenig.