Roman Catholic and transhumanist ethical responses to body augmentation technologies.

摘要

Human body augmentation technologies are approaching levels of integration that challenge current standards of normal biological function and give rise to the possibility of human-machine hybrids that exceed current human sensory and memory abilities. This thesis examines two approaches towards ethical evaluation of such augmentations and attempts to show how precedent and beliefs can shape guidelines as to how far an individual may proceed in modifying the human body with advanced technologies such as artificial organs, limbs and nanotechnology. Selected Roman Catholic medical ethics is considered alongside Transhumanist philosophy in order to view how the body is interpreted in regards to augmentation surgeries and technology.; While both parties ask similar questions with regard to the good of the individual and the common good of society, both come to differing conclusions on how body augmentation technologies will affect humanity. The thesis outlines the concepts of natural law, mutilation, totality, stewardship and authenticity. Questions and answers regarding human happiness, the body, senses and law are drawn from tradition and doctors of the Church such as St. Thomas Aquinas and from the writings of those advocating a post-human approach to augmentation issues. The dignity of the person as well as equality and human health lead to the conclusion that, based upon precedent and natural law, body augmentation technologies should be limited in scope particularly when advocating changes to human reason or reproductive processes.