Mortal Objects: Identity and Persistence through Life and Death

In his book, Steven Luper explores the possibility of changing ourselves without ending our existence, the implications of advanced bioengineering on our genome, and the nature of human existence. He defends an animalist account and discusses the significance of human extinction.

Format: Hardback
Length: 230 pages
Publication date: 17 February 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Here is the rephrased text:

In his groundbreaking book, Steven Luper delves into the profound and thought-provoking questions surrounding the nature of human existence. He challenges the traditional notion of human beings as solely spiritual or cognitive entities and presents a compelling argument for an animalist perspective. According to Luper, we are not just organisms but also material objects. This unique perspective allows him to explore the intricate connections between life, death, and the human condition.

Through a combination of case studies from the life sciences and thought-provoking experiments, Luper develops a novel framework for understanding the nature of life and death. He questions the conventional understanding of human extinction and raises important considerations about the significance of our species. He explores the potential consequences of altering our genome through advanced bioengineering and raises questions about whether we can remain in existence after ceasing to be alive.

Luper's book goes to the heart of the most complex questions about what it means to be human. He challenges the notion that we are defined solely by our cognitive abilities or spiritual essence and argues that our materiality is an essential aspect of our identity. He explores the ethical implications of using bioengineering to alter our genome and raises concerns about the potential loss of our unique human characteristics.

Ultimately, Steven Luper's book offers a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of human existence and the possibilities for our future. It challenges our assumptions and encourages us to think critically about the choices we make and the impact they have on ourselves and the world around us. Whether you are a philosopher, scientist, or simply someone interested in the complexities of human nature, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the deeper dimensions of our existence.

Weight: 456g
Dimension: 159 x 235 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108833721
Edition number: New ed