Introduction

The increasing integration of the human body with technology is a topic that has been attracting significant attention of late (for comprehensive reviews, see the works of Fortunati, 1995, 1998, and Maldonado, 1992, 1997, 1998; see also Brooks, 2002; Hayles, 1999; Katz, 2003; Kurzweil, 2000; Moravec, 1999). Scholars, social critics, lay people, and the press have weighed in on it. The topic also receives repeated attention from the world’s religious, business, and political leaders. Indeed, it is likely to be one of the most significant social issues of the 21st century (Kelly, 1995).