Technology beyond Biology; Isn't It Time to Update WHO's Definition of Health?

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Ethics
• Health Informatics
• Philosophy of Medicine

Background:

• Modern healthcare is increasingly influenced by technological advancements.
• The current World Health Organization (WHO) definition of health may not fully encompass these technological influences.
• There is a growing need to reassess traditional health definitions in the context of evolving technology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the limitations of the traditional WHO definition of health.
• To argue for a revised definition that incorporates the role of technology in health and well-being.
• To propose a new, expanded definition of health.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of the WHO definition of health.
• Examination of philosophical theories like the Extended Health Hypothesis and Extended Mind Hypothesis.
• Literature review on healthcare technology and its impact on well-being.

Main Results:

• The current definition of health is insufficient in the face of technological integration.
• Health can be conceptualized as extending beyond biological boundaries to include technological influences.
• A broader framework is needed to understand the interconnectedness of biology, technology, and well-being.

Conclusions:

• The WHO definition of health requires re-evaluation to reflect the integral role of technology.
• A proposed new definition defines health as a dynamic state of physical, mental, social, and technological well-being.
• This expanded view includes the effective utilization of advanced technologies for optimal quality of life.