October 1962
AFOSR-3233
Summary Report
AUGMENTING HUMAN INTELLECT: A Conceptual Framework
Prepared for:
DIRECTOR OF INFORMATION SCIENCES
AIR FORCE OFFICE OF SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH
WASHINGTON 25, D.C.
CONTRACT AF49(638)-1024
By: D. C. Engelbart
SRI Project No. 3578
Approved:
R. C. Amara, Manager System Engineering Department
J. D. Noe, Director Engineering Science Division
Abstract
This is an initial summary report of a project taking a new and systematic approach to improving the intellectual effectiveness of the individual human being. A detailed conceptual framework explores the nature of the system composed of the individual and the tools, concepts, and methods that match his basic capabilities to his problems. One of the tools that shows the greatest immediate promise is the computer, when it can be harnessed for direct on-line assistance, integrated with new concepts and methods.
Foreword
This report describes a study that was carried on at Stanford Research Institute under the joint sponsorship of the Institute and the Directorate of Information Sciences of the Air Force Office of Scientific Research [Contract AF 49(638)-1024]. Mrs. Rowena Swanson was the AFOSR Project Supervisor for this study.
CONTENTS
1.
The Source of Intelligence 17
2.
Intelligence Amplification 19
3.
Two-Domain System 20
4.
Concepts, Symbols, and a Hypothesis 21
5.
Capability Repertoire Hierarchy 29
III EXAMPLES AND DISCUSSION 47
1.
What Vannevar Bush proposed in 1945 48
2.
Comments Related to Bush's Article 55
3.
Some Possibilities with Cards and Relatively Simple Equipment 56
4.
A Quick Summary of Relevant Computer Technology 63
5.
Other Related Thought and Work 70
B. HYPOTHETICAL DESCRIPTION OF COMPUTER-BASED AUGMENTATION SYSTEM 73
IV RESEARCH RECOMMENDATIONS 115
A.
OBJECTIVES FOR A RESEARCH PROGRAM 115
B.
BASIC RESEARCH CONDITIONS 115
C.
WHOM TO AUGMENT FIRST 116
D
BASIC REGENERATIVE FEATURE 118
E.
TOOLS DEVELOPED AND TOOLS USED 119
F.
RESEARCH PLAN FOR ACTIVITY A 1 120
G.
A SECOND PHASE IN THE RESEARCH PROGRAM 123
