| The convergence of new technologies in the areas of nano-science, biology, computer and information science, and cognitive science now make possible radical enhancement of human capacities. These are associated with new forms of reproduction (cloning), genetics (including germline genetic engineering), pharmaceuticals (for enhancement of strength, stature, or cognitive abilities), and human-machine hybrids (including brain implants for direct human/machine interface). These technologies may soon allow for a significant alteration of human capacities, and longer term, may even alter what we understand as human.
In this course we explore the philosophical, social and ethical issues associated with such enhancements. Throughout the course we move between theoretical discussions that inform ethical analysis of enhancements (e.g., the therapy/enhancement distinction, the nature of humanity, political theory) and the enhancement technologies that are on the horizon (e.g., cosmetic surgery, pharmaceuticals, genetics, human-machine interfaces, nanotechnology, etc.). The goal is to formulate a framework for assessing the appropriateness of proposed enhancements.
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