remembering what it means to be human in the age of ai
this is our manifesto
why it begins here
humans are one species among millions. biologically, we are not that different from the rest of the living world. for nearly three-hundred-thousand years, homo sapiens lived in environments that required walking ten to twenty kilometers daily, fasting between scarce meals, and relying on small groups for survival.
in this modern world, we still carry needs shaped by living close to nature, seeking what sustains health and clarity: movement, modest nourishment, connection, purpose, and deep rest.
we carry ancient design
our minds and bodies formed across hundreds of thousands of years in worlds filled with movement, scarcity, real danger, and deep community ties with a handful of people. our ancestors walked long distances, hunted, gathered, and relied on each other to thrive.
this biology remains unchanged, even as the past two-hundred years of industrial speed and screen-based living pull us away from the rhythms that keep humans well.
our circadian rhythms continue to align with sunrise and sunset. our cortisol rises at dawn for alertness, and parasympathetic activity supports recovery in darkness. our muscles, mitochondria, and dopamine pathways need movement, challenge, and connection.
today, many of us live in cities, surrounded by convenience and distant from the rhythms of nature. we spend hours sitting, eating more than we need and drifting in a stream of notifications.
ironically, we are told this is progress.
returning to our factory settings
returning to our factory settings1 offers a pat to align with five foundational human needs that sustain health, clarity, and presence in the ai-driven world we are building:
move more.
eat less, with variety.
build real relationships.
manage stress.
push boundaries.
humanbeyondtech exists to build and use technology while staying true to what it means to be human. we explore how to live with clarity inside a wired world, share practices that ground us, and shape tools that help the human species thrive.
this is our manifesto.
we thank prof.sinan canan for reminding us that meaningful progress begins when we remember what we are made for.