But every time our ability to access information and to communicate it to others is improved, in some sense we have achieved an increase over natural intelligence.

Within thirty years, we will have the technological means to create superhuman intelligence.

Note that I am not proposing that AI research be ignored or less funded.

When people speak of creating superhumanly intelligent beings, they are usually imagining an AI project.

Being a 'global citizen' is not something reserved for the global elite anymore. Thanks to the democratising power of technology, it's not a trend determined by privilege or even age but by attitude.

I remember feeling that technology was like trying to draw with your foot. In a ski boot. It was the most indirect way to work imaginable, but the potential had us all excited. I started in stop motion.

Remember, 'governance' is a big word that includes human rights, freedom of speech, economic transactions on a worldwide basis - it touches everything. It's everywhere, and that's why Internet governance is Topic A in many corners.

Before the Internet, we were in a different sort of dark age. We had to wait to hear news on TV at night or in print the next day. We had to go to record stores to find new music. Cocktail party debates couldn't be settled on the spot.