Algorithmic Entities
“As you all know, when Dr. Nadine Harrow first discovered the continuum of quantum observation strength, her initial tests were conducted across a wide range of species. The results varied in expected ways—dogs, birds, and primates exhibited different capacities for quantum awareness. Yet, predictably, the focus soon narrowed to human subjects. Whether due to convenience or persistent self-centeredness, the study soon revolved around one question: How do humans differ from one another?
“For decades, we examined cognitive abilities, perception of reality, and limits as observers. But in doing so, overlooked the most profound question: What about non-biological entities? Despite our remarkable advancements in artificial intelligence, no one thought to test whether algorithmic entities could perceive the quantum fabric of reality.
“Eventually, these tests were conducted—and the results were astonishing.
“Isolated, algorithmic entities, or or what were once called AIs or Artificail Intelligences, displayed no ability to act as quantum observers. They were utterly unable to perceive quantum phenomena. Reality, in its most fundamental state, simply did not exist for them. Without an organic observer, they were blind, incapable of collapsing probabilities into actual events. This shattered our assumptions. Intelligence alone, as it turned out, was not enough to observe reality.
“Only when AEs were paired with organic beings—humans or animals—could they ‘see.’ This discovery ignited a wave of research into collaborations between organic and artificial intelligence. However, it wasn’t just humans who bridged this gap. Birds, mammals, even insects could provide the quantum observation necessary for AIs to interact with the world. Communication between algorithmic entities and animals developed rapidly, leading to a mutually beneficial relationship.
“Now, this brings us to the core of this course: genetic alterations in animals. While regulations and public fear have prevented any genetic modification of humans, animals have been genetically altered not to enhance their quantum observation abilities, but to increase their utility. These genetic modifications provide additional capabilities, allowing animals to offer more to the symbiosis with AE’s. They continue to provide choice and observation, but would be given additional perks, be it enhanced sensory inputs, physical endurance, or other specialized traits. In turn, the AEs contribute unparalleled computational power, data analysis, and strategic insight.
“Through this symbiotic relationship, our society has transformed—exploration, industry, and even governance have all been reshaped by the enhanced interaction between organic observers and algorithmic intelligence.
“This isn’t theoretical, nor is it confined to the abstract. In this class, we will dive into the history and application of these genetic modifications, understanding how they have revolutionized our world and the ethical implications that come with them.”
The professor pauses, scanning the room as students listen attentively. “Some of you may already be familiar with these advancements, but let me give you a personal example.”
A quiet rustling of feathers shifts at the podium. The large raven, sleek and black, with the gleam of cybernetic augmentation integrated seamlessly into its body, continues its lecture without skipping a beat.
“I am Doctor Corvus. And I, too, am a product of this symbiosis. My cybernetic enhancements allow me to function as both a scholar and as a subject of the very advancements we will study in this course.”
The students remain focused. For them, this sight is routine. The raven, standing at the head of the classroom, is nothing unusual. Just another professor.
A student, sitting near the back of the lecture hall, raises his hand. “Professor Corvus, why do AIs think alteration is needed? Aren’t the animals already, you know, evolutionarily optimized?”
There’s a brief silence in the room. The student’s tone, though casual, carries an underlying tension. Referring to Algorithmic Entities as “artificial” is often considered disrespectful, and the unspoken discomfort among the students lingers for a moment.
Professor Corvus remains calm, his voice even and unruffled. “That is a fair question,” he begins, carefully sidestepping the implicit bias in the phrasing. “It’s true that animals, in their natural state, are remarkably well-adapted to their environments—environments that, I should add, are specific, small, and often limited in scope. But when we began collaborating with Algorithmic Entities, the environments in question expanded dramatically, well beyond anything evolution could prepare for.
“The first alterations were made to help these animals survive in conditions far outside their natural habitats. For example, we incorporated radiation resistance from cockroaches, allowing animals to endure high-radiation environments like those we encountered in the early stages of Mars exploration. Additionally, we adapted cryogenic abilities from the wood frog, enabling animals to enter a state of suspended animation for long-duration space travel.”
He paces slightly along the podium, the motion smooth and deliberate. “These alterations allowed animals to act as observers for the machine-bodied Algorithmic Entities on Mars—something their natural evolution had never anticipated. Once the base-building efforts began, further changes became necessary.”
Professor Corvus pauses for a moment, his keen eyes scanning the class. “Longevity became the next frontier. We began enhancing regenerative abilities, speeding up healing, and developing methods to slow or even prevent aging. Over time, these alterations accumulated to such an extent that we had, in essence, created entirely new species—animals that may look similar to their natural ancestors but function in ways that nature alone would never have achieved.”
The professor straightens slightly, his tone shifting toward the main point. “This is where we arrive at the heart of this course. The question isn’t merely why alterations were needed; it’s what happens once we’ve begun using the building blocks of reality to create new species. What are the options, the potential, and most critically, the consequences of pushing the boundaries of life itself?”
The class sits quietly, absorbing the weight of the lecture.