Transhumanism is a philosophical and intellectual movement focused on the expansion of human potential through the use of advanced technologies. The main goal of this approach is to overcome biological limits such as aging, disease, and even death, and to create a “posthuman” - a being whose abilities significantly exceed the limits of current humans (Bostrom, 2005).

 

The essence of transhumanism arises from the question: is human nature final, or can we transform it with the help of technology?

 

1. Philosophical assumptions

Transhumanism is based on several basic philosophical assumptions:

1. Ethics of human enhancement – technologies can be used not only for treatment, but also to enhance human abilities.

"The human species can, if it wishes, transcend itself—not just sporadically, an individual here in one way, an individual there in another way, but in its entirety, as humanity." - Nick Bostrom (2005)

2. Biological limits are not a standard – human nature is not finite, but creatively transformed.

"Human nature is not a fixed essence, but a starting point for further development." - Max More (1990)

3. Scientific rationality and technological progress – transhumanism is based on the belief that scientific progress can consciously shape the future of humanity.

 

2. Trends in transhumanism

2.1. Cognitive revolution

The goal is to improve human intelligence and cognitive abilities, for example, with the help of neurotechnology or the integration of artificial intelligence.

 

2.2. Biological improvement

Includes gene editing (CRISPR), slowing down aging processes, and increasing physical performance.

"To be posthuman is to be able to overcome the biological limitations that constrain our species today." - Natasha Vita-More (2010).

 

2.3. Cyber integration

By merging human consciousness with computer systems, a new level of existence is being created. This fundamentally transforms the concept of human consciousness.

 

3. Ethical dilemmas

Transhumanism raises many ethical questions:

• Should human improvement be available to everyone, or only to the elite?

• Does the "posthuman" retain moral responsibility?

• How to maintain identity and selfhood in the age of technology?

Some philosophers argue that technology can enhance human freedom, but others warn of potential social inequality and existential risks (Bostrom, 2003).

 

4. Criticism

Transhumanism is criticized for:

• Technocentrism – excessive reliance on technology, ignoring social and psychological aspects.

• Ignoring anthropocentric limitations – not all biological limits can be overcome without undesirable consequences.

• Post-human risk – managing existential threats related to artificial intelligence or biotechnology.

 

Transhumanism is not just a futuristic vision; it is an intellectual platform for considering what it means to be human in the age of technology. Philosophically, it raises questions about our ethical responsibility in creating a “posthuman.”