Medical Enhancement and Posthumanity von Ruth (Hrsg.) Chadwick

As we are increasingly using new technologies to change ourselves beyond therapy and in accordance with our own desires, understanding the challenges of human enhancement has become one of the most urgent topics of the current age. This volume contributes to such an understanding by critically examining the pros and cons of our growing ability to shape human nature through technological advancements. The authors undertake careful analyses of decisive questions that will confront society as enhancement interventions using bio-, info-, neuro- and nanotechnologies become widespread in the years to come. They provide the reader with the conceptual tools necessary to address such questions fruitfully. What makes the book especially attractive is the combination of conceptual, historical and ethical approaches, which makes it highly original. In addition, the well-balanced structure of the volume allows both favourable and critical views to be voiced. Moreover, the work has a crystal clear structure. As a consequence, the book is accessible to a broad academic audience. The issues raised are of interest to a wide reflective public concerned about science and ethics, as well as to students, academics and professionals in areas such as philosophy, applied ethics, bioethics, medicine and health management.

From the reviews:

"This set of essays by different authors addresses a variety of issues related to the alteration of humanity by means of medical technology. ? The intended audience is primarily academics interested in specific philosophical issues associated with medical enhancement or broader questions related to the legitimate scope and direction of medical science." (D. Robert MacDougall, Doody's Review Service, March, 2009)

"It appears to be targeted primarily at the academic reader who has some familiarity with the themes addressed ? . it consists of a number of papers penned by a range of international experts on the ethics of enhancement, including 'big names' ? . It should be clear ? that there is much to recommend this book. ? it should definitely sit on the bookshelf of anyone working on or interested in the topics it covers." (Peter Herissone-Kelly, Metapsychology, Vol. 13 (24), June, 2009)