Neuroethics: Agency in the Age of Brain Science

Neuroethics explores critical questions about human agency, free will, addiction, and brain enhancement, combining philosophical analysis with brain science. It offers a nuanced view of human diversity and flexibility, making it an essential resource for students and scholars in the sciences and humanities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 19 July 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Neuroethics is a field that combines philosophical analysis with modern brain science to explore critical questions about human agency, free will, addiction, and the potential enhancement of our brains beyond their normal capabilities. By examining captivating cases, neuroethics provides a nuanced understanding of human agency, revealing it to be surprisingly diverse and flexible. Written in a lively and accessible style, Neuroethics is an invaluable resource for students and scholars in the sciences and humanities alike.

The concept of free will has long been a subject of debate among philosophers and scientists. Some argue that our actions are determined by a combination of genetic predispositions, environmental factors, and past experiences, while others maintain that we have the ability to make conscious choices that are not predetermined. Neuroethics explores this issue by examining the neural mechanisms that underlie decision-making and behavior.

One area of study in neuroethics is addiction. Addiction is a brain disease that involves compulsive drug seeking and use, despite negative consequences. Neuroethics examines the biological and psychological factors that contribute to addiction, as well as the treatment options available. For example, researchers are exploring the use of brain-stimulation therapies, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), to treat addiction.

Another area of study in neuroethics is the potential enhancement of our brains beyond their normal capabilities. This includes the use of neurotechnologies, such as brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), to improve cognitive function and communication. Neuroethics examines the ethical implications of these technologies, as well as the potential risks and benefits. For example, some argue that the enhancement of our brains could lead to a loss of individuality and a reduction in human empathy, while others argue that it could lead to new opportunities for learning and innovation.

Neuroethics also explores the ethical implications of using animals for scientific research. While animal research has played a critical role in advancing our understanding of the brain and human behavior, some argue that it is unethical to use animals in experiments that involve pain or suffering. Neuroethics examines the ethical standards that should be applied to animal research, as well as the alternatives to animal research, such as computer simulations and human volunteers.

In conclusion, neuroethics is a field that combines philosophical analysis with modern brain science to explore critical questions about human agency, free will, addiction, and the potential enhancement of our brains beyond their normal capabilities. By examining captivating cases, neuroethics provides a nuanced understanding of human agency, revealing it to be surprisingly diverse and flexible. With a lively and accessible writing style, Neuroethics is an indispensable resource for students and scholars in both the sciences and humanities.

Weight: 406g
Dimension: 140 x 211 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197648094