How smart do you wish to be?  In a study I read recently, neuroscientists are talking about their growing ability to develop neuronal inserts for an individual's brain which will, on signal, make this individual more intellectually adept.  In addition, researchers are perfecting techniques which will allow them to actually "see" a person's thoughts--before she has them.  In other words, mind reading.

     Without tarot cards, too.  Much of the debate centers on the perennial question:  even if we can, should we?

     It's tricky.  On the one hand, historically, humans thinking that they "could" has brought tremendous benefits to humankind.  On the other hand, humans thinking that they "should" have brought humanity to some of its lowest nadirs.

     And who is our judge?  Who adjudicates in these matters?  In a word, us.  And who are we?  Finite and largely hapless and confused beings.  We only know what we know.  And we do not know what we do not.  Which is the problem.

     If you really wish to be "smarter," explore these new techniques and discoveries.  Consider this, however:  who are you becoming "smarter" for?  You or humanity?  If you say the latter, you have already fallen into presumption; the former, inordinate myopia.

     Maybe this is why we need a God.