cyborg

A cyborg, short for cybernetic organism, is a being in which biological tissue interacts with artificial components to augment, restore, or extend function. The term emphasizes integration between living systems and technology, rather than mere appearance or external tools.

The concept emerged in the mid-20th century with the work of cybernetics and space exploration theorists. In 1960s, Manfred Clynes and Nathan Kline described cyborgs as organisms enhanced for independent living in hostile environments. Medical implants began illustrating the idea in practice.

Cyborg systems can be internal or external. Internal examples include neural interfaces, cochlear implants, pacemakers, and myoelectric or brain-controlled prosthetic limbs. External or hybrid devices include robotic exoskeletons, sensory augmentation devices, and visuotactile feedback systems.

Applications span medicine, rehabilitation, and assistive technology, as well as potential enhancement in healthy individuals. Benefits include restored mobility, improved sensory perception, and greater independence; risks involve device failure, infection, security vulnerabilities, and ethical concerns about equity and identity.

In popular culture, cyborgs appear in science fiction as both allies and threats. Real-world research continues to advance brain–computer interfaces and targeted neural stimulation, raising questions about privacy, autonomy, and the future of human-technology integration.