To what extent can human beings merge with machines? If you're Ray Kurzweil, the answer is 'pretty soon'. The co-founder of the Singularity University predicts that in 25 years' time, it will be impossible to tell the difference between the 'consciousness' of a computer and that of a human being.

Unsurprisingly he's a controversial figure who also prophesises that by the 2030s people will be able to achieve some kind of eternal life by backing up their brains. Put it another way, the notion of artifical intelligence will become redundant - human beings and technology will become one and the same and we will become the AI, not a machine.

It's provocative stuff, but there's no doubt Kurzweil is a master at conveying his message. Later this year sees the release of Transcendent Man, a documentary that explains in greater detail Kurzweil's background along with the family history and education that made him such a prominent figure in innovation circles.

You can view a trailer here, followed by an interview where Kurzweil explains in greater detail the coming fusion between human beings and technology.