A influência das mídias no transhumanismo: um panorama sobre a busca tecnológica do melhoramento/aprimoramento da condição humana

Abstract

The research presents an overview of transhumanism highlighting its presentation in the media. Aspects of the Digital Systems and Media course are described, in particular two subjects related to the transhumanism theme. Furthermore, some concepts and examples of transhumanism and their applications are presented. The objective of the research is to answer some questions raised in the methodology related to transhumanism in the media and to discuss the possibility and impact of artificial evolution of an ordinary human being at the level of an enhanced human. Themes of digital media, history and evolution of prostheses and 3D printing technology (additive manufacturing) are addressed. The methodology presents the research questions and the research methods used. The results chapter is divided into four sections, which present the relationship of transhumanism with: traditional media; digital media; 3D printing and 3D bioprinting; and bioethics. The research reveals that the global reach of media, especially digital media, has popularized transhumanist content, firstly through science fiction works that usually address this topic and secondly, by making available what has been accomplished by science. 3D printing and 3D bioprinting play an important role in helping human improvement/improvement, as they have increasingly accessible techniques and materials, facilitating the creation and development of devices and biological organs linked to the transhuman philosophy. Bioethics raises fundamental questions in its struggle with science, discussing the acceptable limits of artificial evolution and the need to further avoid social inequality. The inclusion of everyone in transhumanist practices, who so desire, has to be possible.