Book Reflection: Deep Tech

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Nicole Heyer College of Education and Human Development , University of Missouri IS_LT 7320: Emerging Technologies in Libraries, Fall 2023 Dr. Cindy Dudenhoffer September 18, 2023

Deep Tech Book Reflection

The book is divided into seven chapters each dedicated to one of the identified deep technologies. A chapter begins with a deep synopsis of the tech and goes into the history/emergence of it. Redmond then explores how the tech is presently used and possible future uses before deep diving into how the technology actually works. A conclusion of each chapter pertains to current problems and challenges the tech faces. Redmond also provides follow-up reading suggestions at the end of each chapter, which are relevant to each deep tech. This is a valuable resource for readers who want to learn more about the topics covered in the book.

Framework of Deep Tech

In an interview, Redmond revealed that he wrote Deep Tech for a non-technical audience. Throughout the book, he is candid, humorous, and gracious in acknowledging that the technology he discusses is not easy to understand. He reminds all readers that some of the information he shares is not meant to be absorbed in one sitting.

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Personal thoughts:

Redmond states in the opening introduction that his "focus is on connecting the dots of deep technology for practical applications," and I believe he does an excellent job of accomplishing this goal (Redmond, p. 15). Chapters are written in a straightforward way that does not require the reader to be a techie to understand and envision the technology's potential, with the exception of chapter eight, which is about quantum computers. Good luck with that chapter! Each chapter is interspersed with thought-provoking case studies that demonstrate how deep tech can be used to address some of our most pressing issues. For instance, automobile accidents account for an estimated 1.3 million deaths per year, which exceeds modern age deaths from war, drugs, and violent crime combined (Redmond, p. 173). Autonomous vehicles may just be the technology needed to help reduce that number. His case studies are strong examples of practical uses for each deep tech and really emphasize the transformation potential each has on a global level. Chapters demonstrate that deep tech, when used independently, has the potential to spark an economic revolution. However, Redmond also provides evidence that when combined, these technologies can amplify each other's effects and build on each other. The book is well-written and informative, and it challenges us to think deeply about the potential of deep tech to solve some of humanity's most pressing challenges. While a lot of this technology is incredibly exciting, it also comes with its own concerns, such as security, privacy, and fairness. Redmond also stressed the need for responsible development and ethical considerations.

Chapter 8 (Picking Quantum Locks) opens with a quote from Richard Feynman: "Hell, if I could explain it to the average person, it wouldn't have been worth the Nobel Prize" (Redmond, p. 231). I knew instantly I was in trouble.

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1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
2. Extended Reality
3. Blockchain
4. Internet of Things (IOT)
5. Autonomous Vehicles
6. 3D Printing
7. Quantum Computing

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Two chapters stood out as the most enjoyable to me: Extended Reality and Beyond 3D Printing. As I read through the chapters, I was amazed by the potential of these technologies to benefit society, but I also feared the potential harm they could cause. Redmond is very good at creating hype around new technologies and then following up with very scary and real-world negative consequences. Beginning with extended reality I find it astonishing how it can bridge the physical gap between people and places, and people and people. At first glance, it seems like just a fun piece of technology to play video games with and to visit the Louvre in Paris, France. However, it can also be used for more serious purposes, such as connecting with friends and family who live far away, or learning about different cultures. I was quite impressed with how it was being used as an “empathy machine” for a presentation with members of the United Nations. On the negative side, the same technology can be used to stimulate torture. I was highly entertained and intrigued by the 3D Printing chapter. What has been referred to as simply a trinket producer, the 3D printer is much more powerful and impactful when put in the right hands. The technology is now actively being used in fighting back against poverty. It was so uplifting to read about a charity collaboration project in Mexico 3D printing homes for families at a fraction of the standard cost to build a home. Again, Redmond follows this information with the disturbing information that untraceable guns can be 3D printed in homes across America with the same technology that gave families a safe space to live in.

New Story - New Story + ICON + Échale | “3D Printed Housing for Those Who Need It Most”

Chris Milk - How virtual reality can create the ultimate empathy machine

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Reference Alain Guillot. (2021, May 16). 321 Eric Redmond: Breakthrough Technologies That Will Revolutionize Everything [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/4ncaAz-ZoyA?si=Gow-h0YGhAUTA2H1 Milk C. (2015, March). How virtual reality can create the ultimate empathy machine [Video]. TED Conferences. https://www.ted.com/talks/chris_milk_how_virtual_reality_can_create_the_ultimate_empathy_machine New Story. (2019, December 11). New Story + ICON + Échale | “3D Printed Housing for Those Who Need It Most” [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/PbgCu0aUobE?si=O049jlj5X-mClIds Redmond, E. (n.d.). [LinkedIn page]. LinkedIn. Retrieved September 9th, 2023 , from https://www.linkedin.com/in/coderoshi/ Redmond, E. (2021). Deep Tech: Demystifying the breakthrough technologies that will revolutionize everything. Taneja, H. (2019). "The era of 'Move fast and break things,' is over," Harvard Business Review, 1/22/2019. https://hbr.org/2019/01/the-era-of-move-fast-and-break-things-is-over

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Synopsis

In a world that is rapidly changing due to technological advancements, Eric Redmond's book, "Deep Tech," provides a fascinating look at the cutting edge of innovation and its profound impact on our lives. There are multiple general purpose technologies Redmond identifies as current deep tech that he feels will define the next decade and beyond and have the capability of powering an economic revolution. He links them to having the same transformation power as the printing press, internal combustion engines, computers, and the internet. His book challenges us to think deeply about their potential of solving some of humanity's most pressing challenges, from climate change and healthcare to transportation and education. These deep technologies have the power to disrupt existing systems and usher in a new era of progress that reshapes our world. As we continue to navigate the complex terrain of deep tech, Redmond's work serves as a thought-provoking and informative book that will give a deeper understanding of the technologies that are shaping our future.

What exactly is deep tech?

Click here for the 7 DEEP TECHs Eric identify!

Meet Eric Redmond:

Eric Redmond is a computer scientist, software developer, and author known for his work in the field of database management systems. In the “about the author” section of Deep Tech, Eric is described as “the Forest Gump of technology”. Much like the fictional character, Forest Gump, from the movie of the same name, Eric seems to have a knack of being around during historical and significant moments in technological history.

His impressive resume (advisor to state and national governments, Fortune 100 companies, author of several books, researcher, educator, current head of Metaverse Studio at Nike) has allowed him to have hands-on experience with deep technology at multiple levels.