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Related Experiment Videos

Identity, prudential concern, and extended lives.

Walter Glannon1

  • 1Biomedical Ethics Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Canada H3A 1W9. glannon@falaw.lan.mcgill.ca

Bioethics
|September 5, 2002
PubMed
Summary

Genetic manipulation of aging mechanisms could extend human life span. However, significantly longer lives may weaken personal identity and lower overall quality of life, posing ethical concerns.

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Area of Science:

  • Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering
  • Gerontology and Aging Research
  • Bioethics and Philosophy of Life Extension

Background:

  • Recent advancements in human genetics and stem cell research offer potential for manipulating aging processes.
  • The possibility of significantly extending the human life span through genetic interventions is becoming a tangible prospect.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the potential desirability and ethical implications of genetically manipulating aging mechanisms for life extension.
  • To examine the psychological and societal consequences of a substantially prolonged human life span.

Main Methods:

  • Philosophical analysis of personal identity and prudential concern.
  • Ethical evaluation of potential societal impacts of widespread life extension.
Keywords:
Analytical ApproachDeath and EuthanasiaGenetics and ReproductionPhilosophical Approach

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Main Results:

  • Extending human life span significantly could disrupt the psychological continuity necessary for personal identity.
  • Longer lifespans may diminish the motivation for future-oriented concerns and prudential self-care.
  • Collective effects of extended lifespans could lead to a reduced quality of life for society as a whole.

Conclusions:

  • Genetic manipulation of aging for life extension presents significant ethical challenges.
  • The potential weakening of psychological connections to future selves and societal quality of life are key concerns.
  • These factors suggest caution against pursuing radical life extension through genetic engineering.