In Service to Others: A New Evolutionary Perspective on Human Enhancement.

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Evolutionary Psychology
• Sociology

Background:

• Enhancement ethics traditionally relies on individual autonomy.
• Evolutionary theory is often interpreted as supporting liberal enhancement views.
• Recent scientific developments necessitate a re-evaluation of these assumptions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critique the prevailing view of evolutionary theory in enhancement ethics.
• To explore the implications of cultural evolutionary theory on individual autonomy.
• To propose an alternative framework for enhancement ethics based on service and trust.

Main Methods:

• Critically analyzing existing literature on enhancement ethics and evolutionary theory.
• Applying principles of cultural evolutionary theory to understand social dynamics in enhancement.
• Developing the 'service view' of enhancement ethics.

Main Results:

• Cultural evolutionary theory demonstrates the entanglement of individual and community interests.
• The principle of individual autonomy is less applicable when social status influences enhancement decisions.
• Enhancement decisions are often driven by desires for social status.

Conclusions:

• The traditional reliance on individual autonomy in enhancement ethics is challenged by social and evolutionary factors.
• A service-based approach, emphasizing trust and community, offers a more suitable ethical framework.
• This revised perspective is crucial for navigating complex social living and enhancement decisions.