Transhumanist politics

Transhumanist politics refers to the political ideologies and movements that support the use of science and technology to enhance human physical and cognitive abilities. As a branch of transhumanism, this political stance is grounded in the belief that humans can and should transcend their current natural state and limitations through the application of technology. This includes, but is not limited to, anti-aging, cognitive enhancement, physical enhancement, and the integration of humans and machines. The ultimate goal of transhumanist politics is to promote a society where these enhancements are widely available and lead to a significant improvement in the quality of life.

History

The roots of transhumanist politics can be traced back to the early 20th century, but it was not until the late 1980s and early 1990s that the movement began to coalesce into a distinct political ideology. This was largely due to the efforts of philosophers and futurists who began to discuss the implications of rapidly advancing technologies on society and the human condition. The formation of the World Transhumanist Association (now known as Humanity+) in 1998 marked a significant milestone in the development of transhumanist political thought, providing a platform for advocates to promote their ideas.

Philosophical Foundations

Transhumanist politics is built upon a foundation of secular humanism and rationalism, emphasizing the importance of reason and science in overcoming human limitations and improving the human condition. It is also influenced by libertarianism, particularly in its advocacy for individual freedom and autonomy in choosing to use technologies to enhance oneself.

Political Goals

The primary goal of transhumanist politics is to create a society in which individuals have the freedom and resources to pursue their own enhancement through technology. This includes advocating for:

• Increased funding for research in biotechnology, nanotechnology, artificial intelligence, and other related fields.
• The development of policies and regulations that ensure the safe and equitable use of enhancement technologies.
• The promotion of ethical considerations in the development and use of enhancement technologies.
• The protection of individuals' rights to use enhancement technologies.

Criticism

Transhumanist politics has faced criticism from various quarters. Critics argue that the focus on enhancement technologies could exacerbate existing social inequalities and create new forms of discrimination. There are also concerns about the ethical implications of human enhancement, including issues related to identity, consent, and the potential for coercion. Additionally, some critics question the feasibility and desirability of achieving the transhumanist vision of the future.

Current State and Future Directions

Today, transhumanist politics is represented by a number of organizations and parties around the world, including the Transhumanist Party in various countries. These groups work to promote transhumanist ideas and influence policy related to technological advancement. As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, the relevance and influence of transhumanist politics are likely to grow, raising important questions about the future of humanity and the role of technology in shaping it.