Protocells as Cyborgs

A cyborg is defined as a being with both biological and artificial parts. In science fiction this term is most often used to describe a robot-human hybrid; however, this term may also be used to refer to human-technology fusion in a more abstract way to include cybernetic technologies such as buildings and other infrastructure. One such design, known as the protocell, exemplifies the bottom-up assembly of life and living technology proliferant in science today. These minimal versions of cells are units with natural, life-like properties created from non-living materials. In collaboration with current architectural designs and practices, the idea is to use protocells to fix CO2 absorbed from the atmosphere to create a crystallized casing of calcium carbonate matrix which could protect buildings. Protocells located within the building materials' installation create carbon-negative architecture by recycling carbon dioxide exhaled by visitors into carbon-containing solids. By growing an artificial limestone reef, protocell deposits could also be used to stabilize foundations beneath cities (e.g. Venice). In spite of these benefits, the advantages of self-regulating architecture ascertains some pressing social and ethical issues. The blurring of the human relationship with nature and civilization are key components of the social and environmental context in which protocells are being developed and must be considered fully. Protocells will offer new benefits to individuals and society with immense economic opportunities; however, protocells also have the potential to pose risks to human health as well as the environment while violating moral and cultural norms. Despite being the simplest version of a cell manufactured in a laboratory, the protocell is capable of growth, replication, self-organization and evolution. Terms like Frankencells express the fear of losing control over self-replicating growth as well as fears of not being able to integrate the artificial

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