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Ought we to enhance our cognitive capacities?
1Stockholm University, Department of Philosophy, 10691 Stockholm, Sweden. torbjorn.tannsjo@philosophy.su.se
Bioethics
|February 19, 2009
Summary
Cognitive enhancement may not directly improve individual lives, even when considering various well-being perspectives. The study argues that enhancing cognitive capacities does not inherently lead to a better life.
Area of Science:
- Philosophy of Mind
- Neuroethics
- Human Enhancement
Background:
- The debate on human cognitive enhancement explores its potential benefits and drawbacks.
- Questions arise regarding whether exceeding normal human cognitive capacities improves individual well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the claim that cognitive enhancement directly improves an individual's life.
- To examine the value of cognitive enhancement across different philosophical perspectives on well-being.
Main Methods:
- Philosophical argumentation and analysis.
- Review of various theories of well-being (hedonistic, desire-satisfaction, objective list).
- Consideration of identity and memory enhancement.
Main Results:
- No direct evidence suggests cognitive enhancement improves life satisfaction or well-being.
- Hedonistic, desire-satisfaction, and objective list views do not support inherent value in cognitive enhancement.
- Only extreme perfectionist views might find value, which are deemed implausible.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive enhancement, as such, does not appear to make lives go better.
- There are no compelling reasons, even concerning memory, to pursue enhancement for direct life improvement.
- The societal implications of cognitive enhancement require separate ethical consideration.
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