Why look for ways to increase human intelligence?
Here’s why:
Much more of this sort of thing here. I assume Hans Jenny is speaking metaphorically about sound in his opening remarks. I don’t see how literal “sound” could have brought matter into shape in the airless void of the Big Bang.
Here’s more:
We have a lot to learn about what we are really doing when we observe the world around us. Our perceptions are defined by, but not always limited to, the way our senses work. We see sights, hear sounds, smell odors. Seeing sounds is a small glimpse into a completely different world, one where we can taste colors, feel fragrances, hear textures. (Apparently there are some people who already experience something like what I’m describing.)
Of course, even these ideas are just a simple mix-and-match of sensory experiences we already have. A true superintelligence might experience phenomena via senses for which we currently have no point of reference. Imagine experiencing the speed of numbers or getting high on symmetry or falling in love with gravity. Imagine that, then dial up the weirdness by an order of magnitude or two.
What will we learn about complexity, even the very nature of existence, when these new channels are opened up to us?
Personally, I can’t wait.