The Myth of Moral Bio-Enhancement: An Evolutionary Anthropology and Theological Critique

Abstract

The proposal for moral bio-enhancement has introduced an interesting split among those who are generally in favor of deliberately changing human nature, made more urgent by the impending global problems of climate change, nuclear threats, warfare, etc. In this chapter, Deane-Drummond explores arguments in favor of moral bio-enhancement, drawing on the work of Julian Savulescu and Ingmar Persson. She critically engages with John Harris’ objections and preference for cognitive enhancement, adding further critical analysis from evolutionary anthropology. The chapter argues that a classical Christian account of virtue implies that moral bio-enhancement is a myth, in the sense that it is shown to be a pale secularized imitation of a Christian perspective on human flourishing that orients the development of moral virtues.

I am very grateful to the editors for inviting me to contribute to this volume and to Lorraine Cuddeback for editorial assistance in the preparation of this chapter.