Very few people think of Africa when they turn on their lap-tops.
But one leading scientist insists that “every lap-top, every electronic circuit and every personal digital assistant (PDA) began in Africa.”
According to mathematician Ron Eglash, not only did the roots of digital computing begin in Africa . . .
The roots of the binary code that every modern computer uses can be traced back to the intricate divination systems that traditional African priests and healers use to communicate with the spirit world.
Dr. Eglash, a mathematician and Associate Professor of Science and Technology at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York, says people are always shocked when he reveals that the binary code and the roots of digital computing began in Africa.
In this brief lecture on TED, Dr. Eglash discusses African fractals and the evolution of the binary code:
Eglash is one of several scholars that will be featured in Across The King’s River, an upcoming documentary film that explores modern science and African healing and spiritual traditions.
Across The King’s River producer, James Weeks, says the Western world owes Africa a huge debt – and a huge apology. “It’s one of the greatest ironies. Very few people realize that the binary code originated in Africa. It’s a significant contribution, yet African spiritual traditions have been demonized and ridiculed for centuries,” Weeks said.
Weeks added that one of the reasons he embarked on the film is to clear up misconceptions about African spiritual traditions and to showcase the contributions that Africa has made to modern science and technology.
Across the King’s River explores the sacred and healing traditions of three African cultures: the Yoruba of Southwest Nigeria, the Dagara of Burkina Faso, and the Lebu of Senegal.
Stanley Nelson, an award-winning African-American filmmaker who has showcased several films at Sundance and on PBS, will direct Across The King’s River. Among Nelson’s notable films are Freedom Riders (2011), Jonestown: The Life & Death of People’s Temple (2006), The Murder of Emmett Till (2003), A Place of Our Own (2004), Sweet Honey in the Rock: Raise Your Voice (2005), Wounded Knee (2009).
Across The King’s River will be released in 2013.