Enhancing cognition in the intellectually intact

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience and pharmacology
• Cognitive science

Background:

• Advancements in understanding brain function and dysfunction.
• Existing market success of cognition-enhancing drugs such as Ritalin and Prozac.
• Emerging drugs like Aricept show potential for memory enhancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the increasing plausibility of developing cognition enhancers.
• To examine the market demand for drugs that improve cognitive functions.
• To discuss the societal implications of cognition-enhancing drugs.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on brain function.
• Analysis of market trends for psychotropic medications.
• Discussion of ethical considerations surrounding cognitive enhancement.

Main Results:

• The scientific understanding of the brain supports the development of cognition enhancers.
• Market success of Ritalin (attention) and Prozac (competitive edge) indicates demand.
• Aricept is poised to enter the market for memory improvement.

Conclusions:

• The development of cognition enhancers is becoming increasingly feasible.
• There is a clear market demand for pharmaceuticals that enhance cognitive abilities.
• The ethical and societal impact of widespread cognition enhancement requires further public discourse.