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The age of synthesis: From cognitive science to converging technologies and hereafter
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  • Published: 24 February 2011

The age of synthesis: From cognitive science to converging technologies and hereafter

  • ShuShan Cai1,2 

Chinese Science Bulletin volume 56, pages 465–475 (2011)Cite this article

  • 1360 Accesses

  • 9 Citations

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Abstract

This paper describes the development of two of the most important scientific disciplines in the last quarter of the 20th century, cognitive science, which emerged in 1975, and nano-bio-info-cogno (NBIC) converging technologies, which emerged in 2000. In this century, we will achieve cross-disciplinary integration, innovation in comprehensive knowledge and comprehensive development in human resources. NBIC converging technologies will greatly expand human cognition and communication, improve human health, enhance social outcomes, strengthen national security and unify science and education. Cognitive science and converging technologies will have major effects on the future human development. I argue that the 21st century represents an age of synthesis, reflected in the continual reintegration between scientific disciplines in recent times. This new age of synthesis will require innovations in thought and methodology that differ from those underlying the age of analysis in the 20th century. I predict that these developments will allow every individual to realize comprehensive development. Accordingly, the education system will be transformed, and a comprehensive human resources system will be created.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 10084, China

    ShuShan Cai

  2. Center for Psychology and Cognitive Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 10084, China

    ShuShan Cai

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  1. ShuShan Cai
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Correspondence to ShuShan Cai.

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Cai, S. The age of synthesis: From cognitive science to converging technologies and hereafter. Chin. Sci. Bull. 56, 465–475 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11434-010-4005-7

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  • Received: 24 June 2009

  • Accepted: 16 October 2009

  • Published: 24 February 2011

  • Issue Date: February 2011

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11434-010-4005-7

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Keywords

  • synthesis
  • age of synthesis
  • cognitive science
  • converging technologies
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