Jaron Lanier
Jaron Lanier is an American computer scientist, visual artist, computer philosophy writer, technologist, and musician. Born on May 3, 1960, in New York City, he has been a pivotal figure in the development of Virtual Reality (VR) and has contributed significantly to the fields of technology and digital philosophy.
Early Life and Education
Lanier grew up in Mesilla, New Mexico, where he was largely homeschooled by his mother, with an emphasis on creativity and self-directed learning. His early education was heavily influenced by his mother's interests in science fiction and avant-garde art, which shaped his later work in technology and art.
Career in Technology
- Virtual Reality: Lanier is often credited with popularizing the term "Virtual Reality." In the 1980s, he co-founded VPL Research, one of the first companies to develop and sell VR products, including the DataGlove and the EyePhone.
- Microsoft Research: He later worked at Microsoft as a Visiting Scientist, where he contributed to the development of Kinect and other interactive technologies.
- Current Work: Lanier currently works as a research scientist at Microsoft Research, focusing on topics like machine learning, ethics in AI, and human-computer interaction.
Philosophical and Cultural Contributions
Lanier is known for his critical perspectives on digital culture, internet economics, and the future of humanity in the digital age:
- Books: He has authored several influential books including "You Are Not a Gadget," "Who Owns the Future?" and "Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now," where he discusses the negative impacts of social media and digital technology on society.
- Humanism: A proponent of a humanistic approach to technology, Lanier argues for systems that enhance human creativity rather than diminish it. He critiques what he calls the "Hive Mind" mentality of digital collectivism.
- Economic Models: He advocates for a new economic model where individuals are directly compensated for their data, rather than large corporations benefiting from it.
Musical and Artistic Endeavors
Aside from his tech career, Lanier is an accomplished musician, playing with artists like Philip Glass and contributing to various music projects. His work often explores the intersection of music, technology, and art.
Recognition
Lanier's work has earned him numerous awards and recognitions, including:
External Links
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