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An ageless body does not imply transhumanism: A reply to Levin
Pablo García-Barranquero1, Joan Llorca Albareda2
1Departament of Philosophy (Logic and Philosophy of Science), University of Malaga, Campus de Teatinos, 29010, Málaga, Spain. pablogarcia@uma.es.
Theoretical Medicine and Bioethics
|September 14, 2024
Summary
An ageless body could be better, challenging the idea that it must be post-human. This research argues biological aging is negative and may require biotechnological intervention for enhanced well-being.
Area of Science:
- Bioethics
- Philosophy of Medicine
- Transhumanism
Background:
- Susan B. Levin posits that the desire for an ageless body is irrational, based on Kantian philosophy.
- Levin argues human cognition cannot grasp a post-human, ageless existence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To challenge Levin's argument against the rationality of desiring an ageless body.
- To explore the distinction between life extension and quality-of-life enhancement.
- To argue that biological aging is detrimental and may necessitate biotechnological intervention.
Main Methods:
- A three-step counter-argument is presented.
- Distinction between transhumanist life extension and well-being enhancement.
- Philosophical analysis of the value of biological aging.
Main Results:
- An ageless body does not necessitate a post-human existence.
- Biological aging lacks inherent valuable goods related to its chronological aspect.
- Biological aging is presented as a negative condition.
Conclusions:
- Rational discussion about an ageless body is possible without radical temporal shifts.
- Biotechnological interventions in aging could be beneficial for achieving internal transcendence.
- The pursuit of an ageless body is rationally justifiable.
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