Moral enhancement, freedom, and what we (should) value in moral behaviour

J Med Ethics. 2014 Jun;40(6):361-8. doi: 10.1136/medethics-2012-101157. Epub 2013 Jan 25.

Abstract

The enhancement of human traits has received academic attention for decades, but only recently has moral enhancement using biomedical means--moral bioenhancement (MB)--entered the discussion. After explaining why we ought to take the possibility of MB seriously, the paper considers the shape and content of moral improvement, addressing at some length a challenge presented by reasonable moral pluralism. The discussion then proceeds to this question: Assuming MB were safe, effective, and universally available, would it be morally desirable? In particular, would it pose an unacceptable threat to human freedom? After defending a negative answer to the latter question--which requires an investigation into the nature and value of human freedom--and arguing that there is nothing inherently wrong with MB, the paper closes with reflections on what we should value in moral behaviour.

Keywords: Enhancement.

MeSH terms

  • Behavior*
  • Biomedical Enhancement / ethics*
  • Cognition
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Freedom*
  • Humans
  • Morals
  • Motivation
  • Social Values
  • Violence / prevention & control