Abstract

This short comment presents arguments in support of human enhancement.

What is enhancement? Surely it is a procedure that improves our functioning: any intervention which increases our general capabilities for human flourishing. We exclude from consideration those procedures often termed ``enhancements" that are of dubious overall benefit (for example breast or penis augmentation, or the taking of anabolic steroids to increase muscle mass). Equally we are not talking of ``designer" modifications which are more akin to aesthetic or fashion preferences than to improvements: hair colour, eye colour, or physique. An enhancement (as we are using the term) is something of benefit to the individual.

Recommended Citation

Chan, Sarah and Harris, John (2007) "In Support of Human Enhancement," Studies in Ethics, Law, and Technology: Vol. 1 : Iss. 1, Article 10.
Available at: http://www.bepress.com/selt/vol1/iss1/art10

Discussion Pieces

Michael J. Selgelid, An Argument against Arguments for Enhancement (January 2008)