E-seminar : Bioethics and Human Enhancement: Where Should We Draw the Line?

Présentation

This seminar explores the ethical, philosophical, and social implications of emerging biomedical technologies (bioenhancement) aimed at enhancing human capacities. It critically examines issues such as genetic engineering, cognitive enhancement, neurotechnology, and life extension, asking fundamental questions about what it means to be human. The seminar aims to develop students’ ability to engage with bioethical debates using key philosophical frameworks, including autonomy, justice, beneficence, and human dignity. It also interrogates the moral limits of scientific intervention in human biology and the distinction between therapy and enhancement. A distinctive feature of the seminar is its interdisciplinary approach, integrating philosophy, medicine, and technology studies, with attention to global and African perspectives on human enhancement. Through case studies and critical discussions, participants will assess competing arguments for and against enhancement technologies. By the end of the seminar, participants will be able to critically evaluate bioethical dilemmas and articulate reasoned positions on the moral boundaries of human enhancement.

This Seminar will take place from October 4 to November 28, 2027.

• Stage 1 : Bioenhancement: Foundations of Bioethics and Theories of Human Nature
• Stage 2 : Therapeutic Intervention vs Human Enhancement
• Stage 3 : Technologies of Enhancement
• Stage 4 : Ethical Limits and the Future of Humanity

Learning Objectives

• Critically analyse major bioethical theories and apply them to issues of human enhancement and biomedical innovation.
• Evaluate ethical debates surrounding genetic modification, cognitive enhancement, and emerging biotechnologies.
• Examine the moral distinction between therapy and enhancement in contemporary bioethics.
• Develop reasoned, philosophically grounded positions on the limits of human intervention in biology and human nature.

Knowledge and Skills Targeted upon Completion of the Seminar

Upon successful completion of this seminar, participants will be able to:

• Apply major bioethical theories and philosophical frameworks to critically assess issues related to human enhancement, biomedical innovation, and emerging technologies.
• Evaluate the ethical implications of genetic engineering, neurotechnology, cognitive enhancement, and life-extension technologies, with particular attention to autonomy, justice, beneficence, and human dignity.
• Distinguish between therapeutic interventions and enhancement technologies, and assess the moral significance of this distinction in contemporary bioethical debates.
• Formulate and defend well-reasoned ethical positions on the limits of human intervention in biology, integrating interdisciplinary perspectives from philosophy, medicine, and technology studies within both global and African contexts.

Assessment Methods

The seminar assessment will be based on two main components:

• Individual analytical assignment: Students will write a one-page paper in response to a given question. This assignment will assess their ability to analyze an issue, develop a personal insight, and support their reflection with relevant theological and bibliographical references. 
• Forum participation: Students' engagement in the group discussions will be evaluated, with particular attention to their ability to listen to others, relate faith to different contexts, share personal insights, and enrich theological dialogue through thoughtful, well-supported contributions.