Six Real-life Cyborgs

Meet six inspiring people who blend the line between human and technology

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The term "cyborg" was coined in 1960 by scientists Manfred E. Clynes and Nathan S. Kline. Short for "cybernetic organism," this word describes an entity that combines biological and artificial components to enhance its abilities or functionality. It can refer to a living being augmented with technological enhancements or a machine integrated with organic elements.

According to this definition, cyborgs already exist among us. Individuals with pacemakers or cochlear implants, for example, can be considered cyborgs.

In this article, we will introduce six artists and researchers who have added new parts to their bodies. Some became cyborgs due to life circumstances, while others chose to become one. All of them explore the boundaries between humans and technology.

Hugh Herr

Hugh Herr was a promising climber and was hailed as a prodigy. By the age of 17, he was recognized as one of the best climbers in the United States. But his career as a rock climber has been cut short. In 1982, Herr had an accident he lost both his legs. He was 19 years old at that time.

After recovering from the accident, Herr turned his focus to academics and eventually found a place at MIT, where he began working on advanced leg prostheses.

Herr gained widespread attention in 2014 with his viral TED Talk where he presented his bionic legs. The talk has been viewed over 14 million times to date.

Currently, Herr serves as a Professor of Media Arts and Sciences at the MIT Media Lab and co-leads the Yang Center for Bionics at MIT. Named a "Leader of the Bionic Age" by Time Magazine, Herr dedicated his life to advancing bionic limbs and has been responsible for numerous groundbreaking innovations in bionics.