Remaking the Human: Cosmetic Technologies of Body Repair, Reshaping, and Replacement

The ability to repair, reshape, and replace body parts, chemicals, and functions through technology is now a part of our lives, offering affordable and non-invasive enhancement technologies such as anti-aging medicine, aesthetic surgery, cognitive and sexual enhancers, lifestyle drugs, prosthetics, and hormone supplements. This collection explores why people find these practices seductive and provides ethnographic insights into their motives and aspirations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 290 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2021
Publisher: Berghahn Books

The incredible potential of technology to revolutionize biology, enabling the repair, reshaping, and replacement of body parts, chemicals, and functions, has seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. As we navigate this transformative era, humanity faces a multitude of affordable and non-invasive enhancement technologies, ranging from anti-aging medicine and aesthetic surgery to cognitive and sexual enhancers, lifestyle drugs, prosthetics, and hormone supplements. This comprehensive collection delves into the allure of these practices, shedding light on the motivations and aspirations of individuals as they embrace or reject these enhancement technologies, which are intricately intertwined with complex negotiations over gender, class, age, nationality, and ethnicity.

The ability to manipulate biology holds immense promise for improving human health and well-being. By repairing damaged tissues, reshaping physical features, and replacing malfunctioning organs, technology can alleviate pain, enhance physical abilities, and prolong life. Anti-aging medicine, for instance, has gained widespread popularity, offering individuals the chance to slow down the aging process and maintain a youthful appearance. Aesthetic surgery, meanwhile, allows people to correct physical imperfections and boost their self-esteem.

Cognitive and sexual enhancers, such as cognitive-enhancing drugs and hormone supplements, aim to improve mental acuity and enhance sexual performance. These technologies have the potential to enhance cognitive abilities, improve memory, and boost motivation. However, they also raise ethical concerns, particularly regarding the potential impact on brain function and long-term health.

Lifestyle drugs, such as steroids and performance-enhancing supplements, are used by athletes and bodybuilders to enhance their physical performance and achieve athletic goals. While these drugs can provide short-term benefits, they can also have serious side effects, including liver damage, heart problems, and addiction.

Prosthetics, such as artificial limbs and eyes, are used to replace lost or damaged body parts. These technologies can improve the quality of life for individuals with disabilities or injuries, enabling them to perform daily activities with greater ease and independence.

However, the integration of enhancement technologies into our lives raises several ethical and social concerns. One of the primary concerns is the potential for discrimination and inequality. Enhancement technologies may exacerbate existing social hierarchies, as individuals with access to these technologies may have an advantage over those who cannot afford or access them. This can lead to further marginalization and inequality, particularly among marginalized communities.

Another concern is the potential for harm to individuals and society. Enhancement technologies, such as cosmetic surgery and hormone supplements, can have unintended consequences, such as physical complications, psychological effects, and addiction. Moreover, the widespread use of these technologies may lead to a loss of authenticity and individuality, as individuals may strive to conform to societal norms and expectations rather than embracing their unique identities.

To address these concerns, it is essential to approach the integration of enhancement technologies with caution and responsibility. Governments, healthcare providers, and researchers should prioritize the safety and efficacy of these technologies, ensuring that they are regulated and monitored to minimize potential harm. Additionally, education and awareness campaigns should be implemented to promote responsible use and to address misconceptions and stereotypes associated with enhancement technologies.

In conclusion, the incredible potential of technology to transform biology holds immense promise for improving human health and well-being. However, it is crucial to approach these technologies with caution and responsibility, recognizing the potential for discrimination, inequality, and harm. By prioritizing safety, efficacy, and education, we can harness the benefits of enhancement technologies while minimizing their negative impact on individuals and society.

Weight: 572g
Dimension: 158 x 235 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800730311