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Samuel BautistaWhat is the best philosophical argument against transhumanism ?
One of the philosophical arguments against transhumanism is the "Loss of Human Essence" argument. This argument suggests that transhumanism undermines the fundamental nature of what it means to be human, leading to the loss of essential qualities and values that define our humanity. It raises concerns about the potential consequences of altering our physical and cognitive abilities beyond what is currently considered normal for human beings.
One aspect of the Loss of Human Essence argument is the concern for the loss of human dignity and the potential devaluation of ordinary human life. Some argue that transhumanism promotes an elitist perspective, where those who enhance themselves through technological means might consider themselves superior to those who choose not to or cannot afford such enhancements. This could lead to a hierarchical society, creating divisions and inequality among humans based on their enhanced abilities.
Moreover, transhumanism raises ethical concerns regarding the potential loss of empathy and compassion. For example, if individuals were to enhance their cognitive abilities to the extent that they no longer experience emotions like fear, pain, or empathy, it could have significant implications for moral decision-making and the way we interact with others. Without these emotional experiences, our moral judgments and actions may become detached from the human condition, potentially leading to a devaluation of human life and a breakdown in social relationships.
Furthermore, transhumanism raises concerns about the potential loss of authenticity and the erosion of personal identity. Some argue that by altering our physical and cognitive abilities through technological means, we risk losing our unique individuality and the essence of what makes us who we are. The concept of personal identity is deeply rooted in our bodily experiences and limitations, and altering these aspects could fundamentally change our sense of self.
It is important to note that these arguments against transhumanism are not universally accepted and are subject to debate. Proponents of transhumanism argue that it has the potential to improve the human condition, enhance our capabilities, and alleviate suffering. They emphasize the importance of individual autonomy and the freedom to pursue self-improvement through technological means.
Ultimately, the philosophical arguments against transhumanism revolve around concerns regarding the alteration of human nature, the potential loss of essential human qualities, and the ethical implications of such alterations. The debate surrounding transhumanism is ongoing, and it is crucial to consider both the potential benefits and the philosophical concerns associated with this concept.
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User Comments
Cynthia Sheehan
a year ago
Then it seems like the central position of transhumanism is essentially a normative question and not a scientific one.
Carl Byrne
a year ago
Why is it not a philosophical debate ?
Lisa Trevino
a year ago
I disagree with the first statement. As for industrialization, industrialization post hoc gives the tools to end inequality. Transhumanism not so much, it will rather accelerate the already ongoing injustices. The next step is using our current available capabilities to end poverty and injustice around the world.
Randy Burdick
a year ago
The A-Bomb is a bomb, it is nothing but a weapon. Cybernetics has non violent applications. A bomb doesn't. They aren't comparable. Arguments against technological advancement in the name of "Group X could do bad things with this!" don't do anything aside from potentially kick the can down the road. It's not a matter of if it will happen, it's a matter of when it will happen.
Susan Moore
a year ago
I meant it in a sense of 'treading lightly'. Your example does not fit my argument at all. Cybernetics can go as far as genetic manipulation, bodily enchantment for military propose and more. The negatives here certainly outweigh the positives. The "Why" is not with and to the regard of personal choice whether to enhance or not, but to the scientists and developers who make these technologies. They have ethical responsibility even if they do not recognize them. The same scenario was played with the atom bomb.
Sherry Crook
a year ago
To suggest that we can stop cybernetic enhancement from happening is pretty short sighted. A current example would be the outlawing of body modification in South Korea. Getting something even as small and simple as a tattoo is completely illegal, but tattoos are widespread among Korean millennials. If it isn't practical to say "no more" then it doesn't make much sense to focus our attention there. Instead focus should be put on how we go down the road of cybernetics in an ethical way. So we don't end up like Elysium. You asked "Why would we?" That's the only answer. The "why" for any individual person is subjective. We already replace parts when they fail. Replacement hips, pacemakers, etc. Cybernetics will likely branch off from medical necessity to elective replacement.
Mark Duplessis
a year ago
That an unsatisfying answer. If there was a time for us to say "Stop. No more disastrous gimmicks", it will be in this age facing cybernetics and genetic manipulations.
Dan Andrews
a year ago
Perhaps its my own desire for cybernetic implants fueling my optimism; but I like to think that at first, things will be less like Elysium and more like Deus Ex; but eventually move toward Ghost in the Shell. I feel those two series are a bit more grounded when exploring the philosophical and ethical issues surrounding cybernetics. (Even if they're over the top in action compared to Elysium.) They also answer your question of "Why would we". Both have characters who do it for a wide variety of reasons. Some out of a need for survival, some by choice, most somewhere in the middle.
William Kelly
a year ago
My thoughts about it: Why would we engage in it? Technologically, resources wise, ethically. To me it seems like a turning point in human history that is not positive, like the creation of the atomic bomb. It will only severe the already existing huge inequalities in our world. When you say transhumanism, what I see is Elysium, where the Aristocrats are genetically and technologically enhanced. Moreover, a lot of the transhumanism movement hold a flawed view on the mind.
Erie Regalado
a year ago
Follow up question: Would Heideggerâs argument that technology further removes from authentic reality be considered a naturalistic fallacy? Framed within his existentialism and the concept of throwness it makes a lot more of an impact on me than âwe shouldnât play godâ but that can just be my own biases...