The Pros And Cons Of Bostrom And Miah

Bostrom and Miah both agree that human enhancement is defined as an attempt to modify, either permanently or temporarily, the limitations of the human body. There have been advances in the fields of nanotechnology, biotechnology, information technology, cognitive science and plastic surgery (particularly with cosmetics). Cosmetic enhancement is the use of surgical and medical techniques focused on improving one’s appearance. Many ethical issues have surfaced with respect to this, such as, the border between reconstructive plastic surgery and cosmetic plastic surgery, the psychological effects of cosmetic surgery and media-induced social pressures.
First is the issue of how far plastic surgery can be considered reconstructive until it becomes
According to Scott, the friends and family of those who undergo cosmetic surgery are affected. The pros include an increase in self-esteem and confidence, which impact positively on other aspects of their life. Another pro can be the reduction of social discomfort, which may have prevented them from living their life comfortably. The cons of the situation, include disappointment with the situation post-surgery. Meaning that the patient may have high expectations for their life changing after the surgery, but are disappointed when it was over. It may also lead to gossip among their peers resulting in lingering feelings of inadequacy. The effects of this cosmetic surgery for some people will generally have a psychological effect whether it be good or bad, as can be noted by the pros and cons mentioned previously. Scott gives the example of an African-American who underwent plastic surgery and regretted the decision afterwards. The man was sure that he had ruined his sense of identity and betrayed his people which left him remorseful over the situation and his choice. This demonstrates the effects of cosmetic surgery on those who do
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Dittman, Melissa. 2005. “Plastic Surgery: Beauty or Beast?” Monitor on Psychology 36(8): 30. Accessed March 8, 2014.

Miah, Andy (PhD). 2011. “Ethical Issues Raised by Human Enhancement.” In Values and Ethics for the 21st Century, edited by Gonzalez, F., 199-231. Spain: BBVA.

Scott, Kristi. 2009. “Cheating Darwin: The Genetic and Ethical Implications of Vanity and Cosmetic Plastic Surgery.” Journal of Evolution and Technology 20(2): 1-8. Accessed March 8th, 2014. http://jetpress.org/v20/scott.pdf

Van McCrary, S. 1998. Ethical Issues Regarding Cosmetic Surgery for Minors. Accessed March 8th 2014. http://www.law.uh.edu/healthlaw/perspectives/Bioethics/981230Cosmetic.htm

Winkler, Mary G. and Letha B. Cole. 1994. The Good Body: Asceticism in Contemporary Culture. Yale University