Ending physical disability: Human augmentation could end physical disability in humans

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• May 8, 2022

Insight summary

The rise of assistive technologies, such as robotics and human-assistive artificial intelligence (AI), is transforming the lives of people with disabilities, enabling greater mobility and independence. From robotic arms to walk-assist devices, these technologies are not only enhancing individual lives but also leading to broader societal changes, including a more inclusive workforce and reduced healthcare costs. The long-term implications include shifts in business models, government regulations, and cultural attitudes.

End of physical disability context

People suffering from disabilities may benefit from technological advancements in robotics, human-assistive AI, and synthetic systems. These systems and platforms are collectively referred to as assistive technologies, which aim to replicate the function of specific human body parts so that people with physical disabilities can live with greater mobility and independence. The development of these technologies has opened new doors for those who face daily challenges due to their physical limitations. 

For example, an assistive robotic arm can assist a quadriplegic who uses a wheelchair. The robotic arm can easily be attached to an electric wheelchair and help such individuals eat, go shopping, and move around in public spaces where applicable. This technology is not just limited to robotic arms; there are also walk-assist robots or robotic trousers, which help paraplegics regain the ability to use their legs and enhance their mobility. These devices are equipped with sensors, self-balancing features, and robotic muscles so they can provide their users with as much natural movement as possible.

The impact of assistive technologies extends beyond individual benefits. By enabling greater independence and mobility, these advancements may lead to broader societal changes, such as increased participation in the workforce and community activities by those with disabilities. However, it's essential to recognize that the implementation of these technologies may need to be carefully considered, taking into account factors like cost, accessibility, and individual needs.

Disruptive impact

According to the World Bank, approximately one billion people worldwide suffer from some form of disability. Human augmentation through technology could lead to a more inclusive workforce because it may allow people with physical disabilities—who have proper qualifications—to accept jobs that they were previously restricted from due to their physical limitations. However, such innovations may also become popular among the able-bodied in society.

Additional research has suggested that as these types of technologies develop, in addition to other AI-driven technologies, segments of the general population may become increasingly dependent on them. Increased human intelligence, automation, and physical strength can lead to a more productive workforce and economy, with robotics over the course of the 20th and now 21st century paving the way for the increased automation of human society. Studies show that exoskeletons made of robotic systems could make humans stronger and faster. Similarly, brain chips could aid memory improvements through integrated AI software. 

Furthermore, the use of human augmentation may lead to the creation of immense amounts of healthcare data. For example, devices implanted into a person’s brain could collect physiological data that could one day be used to change or enhance a person’s physical and mental attributes. Governments and regulators may need to create regulations and pass laws that stipulate to what extent these types of devices can augment a person’s physiology, who owns the data produced from these devices, and eliminate their use in specific environments, such as in competitive sports. Overall, innovations that can support people with disabilities may also contribute to advancements in transhumanism.

Implications of ending physical disability 

Wider implications of ending physical disabilities may include:

• A more inclusive workforce where people with disabilities will face fewer limitations in spite of their mental or physical disabilities, leading to a more diverse and enriched labor market.


• Reduced national healthcare costs as people with disabilities can gain greater independence, no longer needing 24/7 support from caregivers, resulting in significant savings for both individuals and governments.


• The greater maturation of tech to augment the human form, itself leading to the growing acceptance of a synthetic society, fostering a new cultural understanding of what it means to be human.


• New sports being created specifically for augmented humans, leading to a broader range of athletic opportunities and the emergence of new competitive arenas.


• Increased demand for skilled technicians and engineers specializing in assistive technologies, leading to new educational programs and job opportunities in the tech industry.


• Potential environmental concerns related to the production, disposal, and recycling of assistive devices, leading to the need for regulations and sustainable practices in manufacturing.


• The development of new business models focusing on personalized assistive solutions, leading to more tailored products and services for individuals with disabilities.


• Governments and policymakers focusing on accessibility standards and regulations, leading to a more standardized approach to assistive technology and ensuring fair access for all.

Questions to consider

• What technologies have you seen (or are working on) that may prove beneficial to persons living with disabilities?


• What do you believe should be the limit of human augmentation through technology?


• Do you think the human augmentation technologies noted in this post may be applied to animals, such as pets?