Humanism and its Discontents: The Rise of Transhumanism and Posthumanism

Posthumanism and transhumanism explore the idea that "Man has been assigned dominion over all creatures" and deconstruction theory, capitalism, libertarianism, and the fight against human extinction. Two authors debate truth and reason, personhood, and the legacy of the Nietzschean Superhuman in anti-humanism.

Format: Hardback
Length: 225 pages
Publication date: 13 February 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Posthumanism and transhumanism are two interconnected philosophical movements that have emerged in response to the biblical notion that 'Man was created in the image of God.' While posthumanism opposes this notion by questioning the inherent value of human beings and advocating for a more technologically enhanced and post-human existence, transhumanism takes a complementary view by asserting that 'Man has been assigned dominion over all creatures.' This perspective further explores the idea of human perfectibility, which was initially introduced by the Enlightenment.

Posthumanism and transhumanism also intersect with deconstruction theory, offering insights into the ways in which human identity and social structures are constructed and deconstructed. At a broader level, these movements relate to capitalism, libertarianism, and the fight against human extinction. Some proponents of transhumanism argue that it may be necessary to trespass the boundary of the skin, achieve individual immortality, or dematerialize the Self in order to survive the imminent threat of human extinction.

In recent years, there has been a lively debate among two authors about the nature of truth and reason in the modern world. They also explore the notion of personhood and the legacy of the Nietzschean Superhuman in the various forms of anti-humanism that exist today. The authors argue that while posthumanism and transhumanism offer different perspectives on the future of humanity, they both share a common concern with the limitations of human nature and the need for transformative change.

Overall, posthumanism and transhumanism are complex and multifaceted movements that challenge traditional notions of human identity and agency. They offer new ways of thinking about the future of humanity and the potential for technological advancement to shape our existence. As these movements continue to evolve and gain traction, they will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the world in the years to come.

Weight: 437g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030670030
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022