Transhumanism
Follow the instructions below for your 700-1000 word Test Response, not counting the header (stay within the minimum and maximum word count). *** Note that each sub-section has a minimum word count. *** Your response should be uploaded as a doc or Docx only. It should be double-spaced, Times New Roman, 12 pt type, with a four-line header (your name, my name, the course, date) on the left-hand side. You are not required to parenthetically cite or include a Works Cited section for this test essay, but you should write in your own words. (Plagiarism results in an automatic 0).
Respond to ALL of (i)–(ii).
(i) (400 word minimum; 60 pts) ENHANCEMENT
Let’s define “enhancement” as modifications of the body intended to improve one’s life that are not medically necessary for the functioning of a normal (or statistically average) human body. Assume that only adult self-enhancement is being considered – not child self-enhancement or the coerced enhancement of other adults or children. Also, a modification counts as an enhancement even if the only one who views it as an improvement is the self-enhancer.
(a) Give two good examples of enhancement, explaining how enhancement is different from therapy. Considering these examples, state two of the best arguments for enhancement, including one provided by Max More. (b) Describe two of Sandel’s best arguments against enhancement. Do you think that the case for enhancement or Sandel’s case against it is strongest? Explain. (c) Should the extent to which we can self-enhance be limited by law? Explain.
(ii) (300 word minimum; 40 pts) LIFE EXTENSION
Here we are considering life extension within a single body, not as a result of body-switching.
(a) State two of the best arguments for the pursuit of indefinite life extension. (b) What is one best argument that Hauskeller makes against the pursuit of life extension? What’s another good argument against life extension (whether an original point you’re making or one made by Hauskeller or someone else)? (c) Which is stronger, the case for or against life extension? Explain.
