The Unfit Brain and the Limits of Moral Bioenhancement

This book explores the need for deeper conceptual understanding of moral bioenhancement and its implications in psychiatry, emphasizing the limitations of neurotechnologies in genuinely altering moral agency and behavior.

The Unfit Brain and the Limits of Moral Bioenhancement explores the intersection of neurotechnology and psychiatry, particularly in the context of moral bioenhancement. The author argues that while there is potential for these technologies to alter moral behavior, a deeper conceptual understanding is necessary to navigate their implications. This need for clarity is especially pressing given the ongoing debates surrounding the ethical use of such interventions in mental health treatment and crime prevention.

The book emphasizes that current neurotechnological interventions may only manipulate certain aspects of moral behavior rather than fostering a genuine enhancement of moral agency. The author suggests that while it is conceivable to influence moral conduct through technological means, the complexity of moral agency cannot be fully captured or improved by these methods. This limitation raises important questions about the ethical ramifications of using technology to modify human behavior, particularly in sensitive areas like psychiatry.

To address these concerns, the author introduces the concept of Identity Integrity as a framework for responsibly applying neurotechnologies within psychiatric contexts. This framework aims to ensure that any interventions respect the individuality and moral agency of persons, preventing a scenario where individuals become mere subjects of technological control. By advocating for a more thoughtful and informed approach to moral bioenhancement, the book encourages a dialogue about the future of neurotechnology in psychiatry and its broader societal implications.