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Cognitive Enhancement and Beyond: Recommendations from the Bioethics Commission
Anita L Allen1, Nicolle K Strand2
1Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues, 1425 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA; Office of the Provost, University of Pennsylvania, 120D College Hall, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
Cognitive enhancement claims are widespread but lack evidence. The US Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues (Bioethics Commission) examined these claims and offers findings for scientists.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Bioethics
- Medical Ethics
Background:
- Media reports suggest widespread cognitive enhancement use, potentially reaching epidemic levels.
- Significant gaps exist in empirical evidence supporting these claims.
- Ethical considerations surrounding cognitive enhancement require thorough examination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the current landscape of cognitive enhancement claims.
- To present the findings of the US Presidential Commission for the Study of Bioethical Issues (Bioethics Commission) on cognitive enhancement.
- To discuss the implications of these findings for the scientific community.
Main Methods:
- Review of media reports on cognitive enhancement.
- Analysis of existing scientific literature on cognitive enhancers.
- Examination of ethical frameworks related to human enhancement by the Bioethics Commission.
Main Results:
- Evidence for widespread cognitive enhancement use is currently lacking.
- Significant ethical questions persist regarding fairness, access, and potential societal impacts.
- The Bioethics Commission's report provides a framework for evaluating future cognitive enhancement technologies.
Conclusions:
- The scientific community should critically evaluate claims of cognitive enhancement due to limited evidence.
- Further research is needed to understand the efficacy and risks of cognitive enhancement.
- The Bioethics Commission's findings offer guidance for responsible innovation and ethical oversight in cognitive enhancement.
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