Question

Write an essay in the ethical dilemma of nanotechnology and how transhumanism/posthumanism are involved

Answer 1

A major goal of transhumanism is the transformation of human beings into posthuman ones by exploiting present and emerging technologies. Nanotechnology is considered as a promising candidate in this respect. Its objects of interest are molecular structures with their surface properties and their specific design as sensors and actuators in various environments including the human blood circulation, lung, brain, etc.

2. What about Transhumanism: Transhumanism is a world-wide science-fictional and kind of philosophical movement that has its roots in the 1920s and 1930s and has reached quite some visibility in the last three decades. The aim of transhumanism is to extend the intellectual and physical capabilities of human beings and transforming them into posthuman beings in this way. A major intention is to employ modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, cognitive science, information technology, nanotechnology, biotechnology, and others as human-enhancement technologies.

3. What about Nanotechnology: Nanotechnology comprises all research areas that deal with atoms and molecules up to the size 100 nanometers. On this level, the surface structure is most significant and quantum-mechanical phenomena play an essential role. In connection with transhumanism, a special research direction of nanotechnology is of great importance: nanobots or nanorobots aiming at autonomous machines on the molecular level. If they are able to manipulate atoms and molecules, they are also called assemblers. A very important aspect in this context is the possibility of self-replication.

4. Will Nanotechnology Lead to Transhumanism? In the mythologies all over the world one encounters the idea of super-natural strength, invulnerability, eternal youth, invisibility, invincibility, and immortality. Some proponents of transhumanism dream of a future in which all this will come true. And there are leading experts in nanotechnology who formulate quite similar aims and objectives of their area: the obligatory victory over Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease, cleansing of wounds, blood, lung, brain enhancement, soldiers who fight without fear, managers who need no sleep to be able to work 24 h a day 7 days a week for their companies, magic hoods, and much more

follow the below publication:

doi:10.3390/IS4SI-2017-03965