You've learned about the properties and characteristics of exponential and logarithmic functions, including their domain and range, what their graphs look like, and how they can be applied in economic and scientific contexts. Many observers assume linear rates of change in technology and social development. Inventor and entrepreneur Ray Kurzweil has put forth evidence of an exponential rate of change in human development of technology and draws some controversial conclusions about future change. Review this talk by Kurzweil, and discuss your reactions. Consider these questions:
• What leads many observers to assume a linear progression?
• Why do you accept or reject the evidence that Kurzweil presented of an exponential model of growth?
• What conclusions can you draw about change in the next 10 to 20 years based on an exponential model of growth in technology, communications, and other fields?
• What other areas of human or societal change have models that would fit an exponential curve?