This is the third class of the 5-day mini-series of Bitesize ethics, which provides a short introduction to the study of practical ethics by looking at some of the issues that concern philosophers and the public alike today. You are welcome to book every class or just drop in for your favourite topic.

In this bitesize ethics talk, we’ll ask what does it mean to be authentic and can I be authentic if I change myself through neurointerventions?

Advancements in neuroscience, -pharmacology, -technology, and -surgery led to the development of new and powerful means to change ourselves. Psychopharmaceuticals like Prozac or Ritalin can enhance our mood or levels of concentration, Deep Brain Stimulation can target specific brain areas to reduce tremors or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and drugs like Propranolol may be able to modify our memories. The potential to manipulate the brain in order to change personality, mood, memory, and other features of the self has raised concerns about authenticity. What does it mean to be authentic and can I be authentic if I change myself through neurointerventions?

Registration is free, and attendance is via Zoom. Classes will take place 12:30-13:15 online and will consist of a 30-minute presentation followed by a Q&A. To register, please visit our BookWhen page.

No prior experience or study is necessary and participation in the informal Q&As and discussion sessions following each week’s presentations is warmly encouraged.