A Brief Dive into Transhuman History

Transhumanism finds its roots in the early 20th century, with the advent of the industrial revolution and the birth of scientific futurism. Thinkers like J.B.S Haldane and Julian Huxley began to imagine a future where mankind could transcend its biological limitations through technology. Today, these visions are inching closer to reality with advancements in fields like robotics, AI, and bioengineering.

The Here and Now of Transhumanism

The 21st century has seen significant strides in Transhumanism. Prosthetics have evolved from rudimentary replacements to high-tech extensions of the human body, providing superior functionality in some cases. Cochlear implants and retinal prostheses are restoring and enhancing hearing and vision, respectively.

Moreover, we are also witnessing the emergence of brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). BCIs are devices that directly connect the human brain with computers, enabling data exchange. While still in its infancy, this technology holds immense potential, from controlling prosthetics with thoughts to enhancing cognitive abilities.

The Price and Impact of Transhumanism

Naturally, such cutting-edge technology comes with a hefty price tag. The cost of advanced prosthetics can range from $5,000 to well over $50,000. BCIs, still in the experimental stage, are currently priceless. However, as these technologies become more mainstream, prices are expected to drop, making them accessible to a larger population.

The impact of Transhumanism on society could be profound. As these technologies become ubiquitous, they could redefine what it means to be human. They could also raise complex ethical and societal questions related to equity, identity, and privacy.

Navigating the Controversies

In spite of its potential, Transhumanism has its share of controversy. Detractors argue that enhancing human abilities could create a divide between ‘natural’ and ‘enhanced’ humans, leading to potential discrimination. Others worry about the potential misuse of technology, particularly in the realm of BCIs, where hacking could potentially lead to mind control.

What Does the Future Hold?

As we move forward, the line between man and machine is likely to blur further. We might see the advent of advanced BCIs that not only restore lost functions but also enhance brain capabilities. Biohacking, the practice of modifying the human body with DIY technology, might become mainstream. In the far future, we might even witness the rise of post-human entities, beings that have transcended biological limitations entirely.

Transhumanism, therefore, holds the promise of a future where we can overcome our biological limitations and possibly even redefine humanity. However, it also presents us with complex ethical dilemmas that we must navigate carefully. As we progress further into the 21st century, we must ensure that the benefits of Transhumanism are accessible to all, while minimizing its potential harms.