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J Med Ethics 2005;31:519-525 doi:10.1136/jme.2004.009803
  • Clinical ethics

Implant ethics

  1. S O Hansson
  1. Correspondence to:
 S O Hansson
 Philosophy Unit, Royal Institute of Technology, Teknikringen 78, 100 44 Stockholm, Sweden; sohinfra.kth.se
  • Received 17 June 2004
  • Accepted 28 October 2004
  • Revised 24 October 2004

Abstract

Implant ethics is defined here as the study of ethical aspects of the lasting introduction of technological devices into the human body. Whereas technological implants relieve us of some of the ethical problems connected with transplantation, other difficulties arise that are in need of careful analysis. A systematic approach to implant ethics is proposed. The major specific problems are identified as those concerning end of life issues (turning off devices), enhancement of human capabilities beyond normal levels, mental changes and personal identity, and cultural effects.

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