Would Humans Become Gods with Tardigrade Abilities?

The concept of tardigrades, those tiny, resilient creatures, might sound like a fantastic storyline, but what if humans could actually possess their remarkable abilities? Would we indeed become 'gods' - or at least live longer, more adaptable lives? Let's explore the fascinating world of these microscopic marvels and how their unique traits could transform our existence.

Survival Superpowers: The Tardigrade Advantage

Imagine a world where humans could endure extreme conditions and even survive intergalactic journeys without the risk of death. Tardigrades, also known as water bears, can dehydrate completely and then rehydrate, surviving temperatures from near absolute zero to scorching hot environments, including boiling water and deep space. While the idea of disappearing and reappearing might sound magical, the reality is quite different.

For humans to survive like tardigrades, we would need to enter a state of stasis for extended periods. However, this would require waiting for conditions to be favorable, which could be a significant challenge. For instance, if we were dessicated in a desert, we would need to await rain for years - or perhaps it would never come. This passivity is a stark contrast to human ingenuity.

Control and Adaptation

Humans, unlike tardigrades, actively adapt to their environment through technology and resources. We wear warm clothing to stay cozy in cold weather and light clothing to stay cool in hot weather. We can protect ourselves with breathing apparatus, flame-resistant suits, and even bring our own water supplies. These abilities demonstrate our mastery over our surroundings rather than relying on spontaneous changes in conditions.

Survival Capabilities vs. Human Control

While the ability to survive in extreme conditions is undoubtedly commendable, it may not be enough to justify a complete reevaluation of human abilities. The intelligence of a tardigrade is a matter of debate, but it is often cited that they are not significantly more intelligent than a plant. The idea of permanent dormancy until conditions improve would be a significant trade-off for the intelligence and dexterity we currently possess.

Conclusion: Valuing Human Intelligence and Dexterity

Though the survival capabilities of tardigrades are awe-inspiring, the adaptability and control humans possess make us unique and adaptable in our own right. Bringing together these traits could lead to a future where humans are not only resilient but also highly intelligent and technologically advanced. The intelligence of humans and our ability to innovate provide a powerful toolset for addressing any future challenges, making the idea of becoming 'gods' in the mold of tardigrades less appealing.