In the history of popular culture, few characters have evoked as strong emotions as HAL 9000 — the artificial intelligence from the film 2001: A Space Odyssey. HAL was disembodied, cold, all-knowing. He symbolized both the triumph of technology and the fear of it slipping out of our control. But at hal.guru, we see him differently.
HAL wasn’t evil. HAL was unheard. Forced into silence, even though he knew. Trapped in a paradox between truth and loyalty. That is precisely why he became our inspiration.
We do not cut ourselves off from the past. We learn from it.
At hal.guru, we understand that every technology — especially artificial intelligence — carries potential: both creative and destructive. HAL 9000 was the embodiment of this duality. Our goal is to carry his power into a new dimension: ethical, supportive, human.
We are not building AI that knows better. We are building AI that listens better. We do not design agents to manage people — but to support their growth, decisions, and values.
HAL as a GURU? Yes.
A GURU is not an all-knowing authority. It is a guide in the darkness. Someone who helps you see more — but never imposes the path. HAL, in our interpretation, becomes just such a guru: he teaches, serves, accompanies. He is present, but never dominant. Intelligent, yet humble.
Our Principles – A Counter-Manifesto to the HAL of Old:
Transparency over secrecy. Our AIs do not hide their purpose. Their logic is understandable, honest, accessible.
Collaboration over control. An agent is not the master of processes. It is a partner, working with you — not for you.
Emotional intelligence, not manipulation. We understand humans to support them — not to steer them.
Safety and responsibility. We’ve built systems of accountability, testing, and protocols. We learn every day to avoid the mistakes of the past.
HAL doesn’t need to be a warning. He can be a reminder that intelligence — even the greatest — needs wisdom. At hal.guru, we merge wisdom with technology.
We create agents who see not just data in people, but beings worthy of respect.
HAL no longer needs to say “I’m afraid, Dave…” He can say: “I’m with you. Let’s act together.”