Cognitive gene enhancements and the capitalist meritocracy.

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Neuroethics
• Sociology of Technology

Background:

• The relationship between cognitive enhancements (CE) and human autonomy/authenticity is typically viewed as CE impacting these traits.
• The value and pursuit of CE itself are rarely examined for authenticity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To argue that the moral permissibility of cognitive gene enhancements is undermined by concerns about their authentic value.
• To investigate if the widespread desire for CE is influenced by oppressive societal norms.

Main Methods:

• Philosophical argumentation
• Critical analysis of societal norms
• Examination of capitalist meritocracy's influence

Main Results:

• The value placed on CE may stem from oppressive norms promoting "superintelligence" and productivity.
• These norms are argued to originate from a capitalist meritocracy with patriarchal and racist underpinnings.
• The claim of autonomous choice in using CE is weakened, especially concerning genetic modifications.

Conclusions:

• The moral permissibility of cognitive gene enhancements is questionable due to potentially inauthentic motivations.
• Capitalist meritocracy's influence on norms for intelligence and productivity must be considered.
• The autonomy associated with CE use is less robust than often assumed, particularly with genetic interventions.