ABSTRACT
In postmodernity, it is said, there is an increasing tolerance of the widely divergent lifestyles of individuals. Within the processes that comprise this trend is an increasing skepticism toward, and at times the total rejection of, the possibility of universal value standards, whether religious or secular. These processes are evidenced both in body-practices as well, of course, as intellectual ones.1 As proof of the bodily instantiations of this trend, we can look to nonclinically indicated body modifi cation through plastic surgery. Traditionally, cosmetic surgery had helped victims of car crashes or facial disfi gurement by dog attacks or the amelioration of genetic defects. The use of biotechnologies has not, until recently, extended beyond therapy except in science fi ction. Now these technologies are being used for the purposes of autonomously chosen body modifi cations/enhancements. This trend must be seen alongside other aspects of physical and cognitive enhancement, chosen for either aesthetic reasons or functional gains.2
