Date of Award
6-2009
Document Type
Union College Only
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Philosophy
First Advisor
Robert Baker
Language
English
Keywords
rights, human, nature, fukuyama, natural
Abstract
This thesis is an in-depth examination of Francis Fukuyama’s Our Posthuman Future. Fukuyama argues that our current system of positive rights (rights decided by consensus) is unsatisfactory; we ought instead to follow a system of natural rights (rights determined by our human nature). A major advantage of natural rights is that it defines human dignity, a quality universally respected but of nebulous definition. Fukuyama argues that since rights are based in human nature, any technology that may alter human nature may alter natural rights and human dignity. This is a bad state of affairs. Biotechnology has the potential to alter human nature. Therefore, he concludes, we ought not to pursue biotechnology that alters human nature. This thesis critically analyzes his position. It accepts, for the sake of argument, that Fukuyama is correct that we ought to utilize a system of natural rights. It concludes that Fukuyama is correct to urge caution with nature-altering biotechnology, but that he is incorrect to recommend banning it. His argument is therefore invalid.
Recommended Citation
Barash, Zachary, "Reflections on our posthuman future" (2009). Honors Theses. 1257.
https://digitalworks.union.edu/theses/1257