ABSTRACT
The terms “cognitive enhancement” and “neuroenhancement” are often used interchangeably to describe a type of drug use, like doping in sports, which is not for treating impairments. Drugs that enhance one type of function might have a detrimental impact on another, or people who already function well might not experience any benefit. In contrast, those with less natural ability might experience only modest effects. Some proponents of neuroenhancement speculate that it will soon become standard practice. However, such speculation is supported by limited evidence of the prevalence of the use of neuroenhancers. A debate also rages regarding the possibility of emotional enhancement that is strictly related to the concept of authenticity, as there is a common intuition that artificial means will inevitably lead to inauthentic emotions. Case studies reveal that some psychotropic drugs, such as antidepressants, actually improve experiences of authenticity, making them feel “like themselves” for the first time in their lives. However, this kind of response can range widely in different subjects. Therefore, the problem appears quite complex and requires an analysis without prejudices but within an ethical conceptual framework.
