RT Article
T1 Cognitive neuroenhancement: false assumptions in the ethical debate
JF Journal of medical ethics
VO 38
IS 6
SP 372
OP 375
A1 Heinz, Andreas 1941-
A1 Kipke, Roland
A1 Heimann, Hannah
A1 Wiesing, Urban
LA English
PB BMJ Publ.
YR 2012
UL https://www.ixtheo.de/Record/1816143685
AB The present work critically examines two assumptions frequently stated by supporters of cognitive neuroenhancement. The first, explicitly methodological, assumption is the supposition of effective and side effect-free neuroenhancers. However, there is an evidence-based concern that the most promising drugs currently used for cognitive enhancement can be addictive. Furthermore, this work describes why the neuronal correlates of key cognitive concepts, such as learning and memory, are so deeply connected with mechanisms implicated in the development and maintenance of addictive behaviour so that modification of these systems may inevitably run the risk of addiction to the enhancing drugs. Such a potential risk of addiction could only be falsified by in-depth empirical research. The second, implicit, assumption is that research on neuroenhancement does not pose a serious moral problem. However, the potential for addiction, along with arguments related to research ethics and the potential social impact of neuroenhancement, could invalidate this assumption. It is suggested that ethical evaluation needs to consider the empirical data as well as the question of whether and how such empirical knowledge can be obtained.
DO 10.1136/medethics-2011-100041