With rapid advancements in human enhancement technologies, society struggles with many issues, such as definition, effects, participation, regulation, and control. Current and future initiatives in these technologies may not be in the participants’ best interests; therefore, it is imperative for research on humanitarian considerations to be available to those affiliated with this field. Global Issues and Ethical Considerations in Human Enhancement Technologies compiles prestigious research and provides a well-rounded composite of the field’s role in emerging technologies. Addressing both present and future concerns, this publication serves as a valuable reference work for researchers, students, professionals, and practitioners involved in computer science and the humanities, as well as many engaged in a humanities approach to metasystems, new artificial life, and robotics.

"This book compiles prestigious research and provides a well-rounded composite of role of human enhancement technologies in emerging areas for those involved in computer science and the humanities, as well as many engaged in a humanities approach to metasystems, new artificial life, and robotics"--

Along with the introduction of technology in nearly every facet of human life comes the question of the ethical side of using technology to improve the human condition, whether that be physically or mentally. The capabilities of human enhancement technologies have created a dual-sided approach to discussing human enhancement: the critical approach of attempting to reach human perfection and the ethics within that idea and the endless capabilities of technology that have greatly impacted the medical field. It is essential to discuss both aspects within these emerging technologies, whether as separate entities or as cohesive units. Ranging from disease detection and treatment to implants and prosthetics to robotics and genetic engineering, human enhancement technologies are widespread and multi-purposed. By going beyond the capabilities of human hands, these technologies have propelled modern medicine and healthcare to new levels that have allowed humans to face new treatments or assistive technologies not seen before. The Research Anthology on Emerging Technologies and Ethical Implications in Human Enhancement covers the primary technologies and tools being used in medicine and healthcare along with discussions on the ethics of enhancing the human body. Topics covered include prosthetics and implants, robotics, human disorders/diseases and treatments and smart technologies, along with law and theory. This publication serves as a valuable reference work for doctors, medical professionals, researchers, students, professionals, and practitioners involved in fields that include ethics, medicine, computer science, robotics, genetics, assistive technologies, nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, and biotechnology.

Enhancing Human Capacities is the first to review the very latest scientific developments in human enhancement. It is unique in its examination of the ethical and policy implications of these technologies from a broad range of perspectives. Presents a rich range of perspectives on enhancement from world leading ethicists and scientists from Europe and North America The most comprehensive volume yet on the science and ethics of human enhancement Unique in providing a detailed overview of current and expected scientific advances in this area Discusses both general conceptual and ethical issues and concrete questions of policy Includes sections covering all major forms of enhancement: cognitive, affective, physical, and life extension

To what extent should we use technology to try to make better human beings? Because of the remarkable advances in biomedical science, we must now find an answer to this question. Human enhancement aims to increase human capacities above normal levels. Many forms of human enhancement are already in use. Many students and academics take cognition enhancing drugs to get a competitive edge. Some top athletes boost their performance with legal and illegal substances. Many an office worker begins each day with a dose of caffeine. This is only the beginning. As science and technology advance further, it will become increasingly possible to enhance basic human capacities to increase or modulate cognition, mood, personality, and physical performance, and to control the biological processes underlying normal aging. Some have suggested that such advances would take us beyond the bounds of human nature. These trends, and these dramatic prospects, raise profound ethical questions. They have generated intense public debate and have become a central topic of discussion within practical ethics. Should we side with bioconservatives, and forgo the use of any biomedical interventions aimed at enhancing human capacities? Should we side with transhumanists and embrace the new opportunities? Or should we perhaps plot some middle course? Human Enhancement presents the latest moves in this crucial debate: original contributions from many of the world's leading ethicists and moral thinkers, representing a wide range of perspectives, advocates and sceptics, enthusiasts and moderates. These are the arguments that will determine how humanity develops in the near future.

A cross-disciplinary approach is offered to consider the challenge of emerging technologies designed to enhance human bodies and minds. Perspectives from philosophy, ethics, law, and policy are applied to a wide variety of enhancements, including integration of technology within human bodies, as well as genetic, biological, and pharmacological modifications. Humans may be permanently or temporarily enhanced with artificial parts by manipulating (or reprogramming) human DNA and through other enhancement techniques (and combinations thereof). We are on the cusp of significantly modifying (and perhaps improving) the human ecosystem. This evolution necessitates a continuing effort to re-evaluate current laws and, if appropriate, to modify such laws or develop new laws that address enhancement technology. A legal, ethical, and policy response to current and future human enhancements should strive to protect the rights of all involved and to recognize the responsibilities of humans to other conscious and living beings, regardless of what they look like or what abilities they have (or lack). A potential ethical approach is outlined in which rights and responsibilities should be respected even if enhanced humans are perceived by non-enhanced (or less-enhanced) humans as “no longer human” at all.

As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, the possibilities of enhancing human abilities and traits through bioengineering are becoming increasingly real. But this raises profound issues surrounding ethics, morality, religion and economics which require careful consideration. In this groundbreaking book, the exploration of complex issues surrounding human enhancement is conducted. Delving into the ethical, social, political, technological, philosophical, psychological, legal, economic, spiritual, and global implications of this emerging technology. The book covers a wide range of topics, including the impact of human enhancement on society and government, the latest technological developments, and the legal and regulatory issues at stake. The authors also examine the philosophical and psychological implications of human enhancement, including its potential impact on personal identity and mental well-being. In addition, the book explores the economic and global context of human enhancement, as well as its spiritual and religious implications. Throughout, the authors highlight the need for responsible and ethical stewardship of human enhancement technologies. Accessible and engaging, this book is essential reading for anyone interested in the future of humanity and the profound questions that arise as we seek to enhance our own capabilities and potentials

"This book explores the ethical challenges of technology innovations, providing cutting-edge analysis of designs, developments, impacts, policies, theories, and methodologies related to ethical aspects of technology in society"--Provided by publisher.

The advancement of technologies in the 20th century has radically transformed the interconnectedness of humans, science, and technology within an evolving society. Evolving Issues Surrounding Technoethics and Society in the Digital Age serves as an interdisciplinary base of scholarly contributions on the subject of technoethics, a field that deals with current and future problems that arise at the intersection of science, technological innovation, and human life and society. This premier reference work leverages ethical analysis, risk analysis, technology evaluation, and the combination of ethical and technological analyses within a variety of real life decision-making contexts, appealing to scholars and technology experts working in new areas of technology research where social and ethical issues emerge.

"This book introduces the reader to the key concepts and issues that comprise the emerging field of Technoethics, the interdisciplinary field concerned with all ethical aspects of technology within a society shaped by technology"--Provided by publisher.