A Neuroethical Framework to Analyze Soldier Enhancement Using Invasive Neurotechnology
Abstract
This paper develops a neuroethical framework to address the implications of invasive neurotechnology being utilized on able-bodied individuals for human enhancement in the name of national defense. Neurotechnology can positively alter the lives of millions of people with physical abnormalities or psychological disorders. However, it can also change what it means to be human for a healthy soldier. It is unlikely that researchers can identify all of the possible second and third-order consequences of invasive neurotechnology before implanting it in soldiers. This is why ethicists must stay one step ahead of development and work closely with researchers and government agencies to minimize unintended consequences. Neurotechnology has numerous national security implications and the potential to change the character of war depending on how it is incorporated. In particular, invasive neurotechnology has increased risks and costs but yields tremendous benefits if it is developed using an ethics-first approach to limit unintended consequences to humanity and society. Militarizing invasive neurotechnology must not be solely for an asymmetric advantage. Although this technology is still in development, it is important to explore all possibilities to allow the ethical discourse to get ahead of the implementation. The Ethical, Legal, and Social Implication (ELSI) panels in neurotechnology research establishments need to have the ultimate authority on whether neurotechnology research on able-bodied humans should continue or end before unintended consequences occur.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 10, 2023
- Accession Number
- AD1209159
Entities
People
- Vincent D. Iii Chamberlain
Organizations
- Naval War College