Reflection: Faculties and Neuroenhancement

  • Saskia K. Nagel*
  • *Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterAcademicpeer-review

    Abstract

    This final Reflection looks at our natural desire to enhance our mental states, and improve upon them. Humans have tried many methods of enhancing mental states including psychoactive substances which act to achieve different perceptions, thoughts, and feelings. The most relevant way to enhance faculties in the modern world is through psychoactive drugs which can effect muscle strength, sleep, sexuality, cognitive capacities, and affective states. It is still unclear, however, what is enhanced by the sorts of interventions we use now. The physiological and psychological short- and long-term effects of psychotropics on the developing human brain have not yet been systematically investigated in humans.

    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationThe Faculties
    Subtitle of host publicationA History
    EditorsDominik Perler
    PublisherOxford University Press
    Chapter11
    ISBN (Electronic)9780190247201
    ISBN (Print)9780199935253
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 30 Jun 2015

    Keywords

    • Developing human brain
    • Feelings
    • Interventions
    • Mental states
    • Perceptions
    • Psychoactive substances
    • Psychotropics
    • Thoughts

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