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  • The Barrow scale, proposed by physicist John D. Barrow, is a classification system that measures a civilization's level of [[technological advancement]] based on its ability to manipulate and control matter at increasingly smaller scales[1][2][3].

The scale consists of seven main categories[1][2][3]:

  • Type I-minus: Ability to manipulate objects on the scale of the [[civilization]] itself, such as using simple tools and building structures.
  • Type II-minus: Capability to control [[genetics|genetic]] [[information]] and alter the development of living things.
  • Type III-minus: Mastery over molecules and molecular bonds, enabling the creation of new materials.
  • Type IV-minus: Control of individual atoms, allowing for the development of advanced [[nanotechnology]] and [[artificial life]].
  • Type V-minus: Manipulation of atomic nuclei and engineering of nucleons.
  • Type VI-minus: Control over elementary particles like quarks and leptons in [[fundamental physics]] to create organized structures.
  • Type Omega-minus (Ω-minus): Ability to manipulate the fundamental structure of [[spacetime]].

The Barrow scale is often compared to the Kardashev scale, which measures a civilization's technological advancement based on its energy consumption[3]. While the Kardashev scale focuses on the macro-level, the Barrow scale emphasizes the micro-level, suggesting that as civilizations advance, they will increasingly focus on manipulating matter at smaller scales[1][2].

Some argue that the Barrow scale may be a more accurate representation of technological progress, as it directly correlates with the development of advanced technologies like [[nanotechnology]] and [[biotechnology]][1][2]. However, the scale remains largely theoretical, as the higher categories involve technologies that are currently beyond human capabilities.

Citations: [1] SETI: Musings on the Barrow Scale | Centauri Dreams [2] Temporary Page [3] Kardashev scale - Wikipedia [4] Microdimensional | Kardashev Scale Wiki | Fandom

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