Better Brains? Ethics of Neuroenhancement (September 23, 2009)

Bettina Schöne-Seifert, M.D., M.A. (University Professor and Chair for Medical Ethics, Institute for Ethics, History, and Theory of Medicine, University of Münster, Münster, Germany, Member, German Ethics Council) provided a framework for understanding biomedical enhancment versus treatment. Dr. Schöne-Seifert provided several hypothetical scenarios and concerns with the use of neuroehancers for improving intelligence and mood functioning of the human brain and the impact this could have on social systems and humanity in general. Concerns surrounding authenticity, competition, and personal values and preferences were discussed. Daniel G. Larriviere, M.D., J.D. (Assistant Professor of Neurology and Lecturer, School of Law, University of Virginia) added insights from legal and efficacy concerns.

Co-presented with the Institute for Practical Ethics and Public Life

For further reading on the guidelines set by the American Academy of Neurology and comments from lead author Dr. Dan Larriviere, please see the links below.

Medical News Today: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/165950.php

UVA Today: http://www.virginia.edu/uvatoday/newsRelease.php?id=9916

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