The Politics and Ethics of Transhumanism
Techno-Human Evolution and Advanced Capitalism
By Alexander Thomas
Published
Jul 30, 2024Page count
256 pagesISBN
978-1529239645Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University PressPublished
Jul 30, 2024Page count
256 pagesISBN
978-1529239669Dimensions
234 x 156 mmImprint
Bristol University Press
The Politics and Ethics of Transhumanism
Available open access digitally under CC-BY-NC-ND licence
Transhumanism is a philosophy which advocates for the use of technology to radically enhance human capacities.
This book interrogates the promises of transhumanism, arguing that it is deeply entwined with capitalist ideology. In an era of escalating crisis and soaring inequality, it casts doubt on a utopian techno-capitalist narrative of unending progress. In critiquing the transhumanist project, the book offers an alternative ethical framework for the future of life on the planet.
As the debates around the advancement of AI and corporate-led digital technologies intensify, this is an important read for academics as well as policy makers .
“A uniquely rich and thoughtful account of one of the most destructive ideologies of our time. This is a book for anyone who wants a clearsighted view of the current political moment.” Alice Crary, University of Oxford
“At the edge of academic debates, an increasingly powerful position has developed: transhumanism. Thomas exposes its celebratory take on capitalism, data and technology, and its false solutions to contemporary dilemmas. A much-needed guide.” Nick Couldry, London School of Economics and Political Science
"Erudite and thorough - the most rational discussion of Transhumanism to date. No less than a seminal intervention in the field." Jonathan Hay, University of Chester
“Thomas does a brilliant job of criticizing transhumanist thought by situating it within complexity and capitalism. This full-length book is incredibly well researched and a timely addition to the current discourse.” Richard Lewis, University of Washington Bothell
"This is a brilliant, timely, and important contribution to the growing literature on the philosophical flaws and potential dangers of the transhumanist ideology. A must-read for anyone interested in the future of humanity and how this future could go terribly wrong." Émile P. Torres, Case Western Reserve University
Alexander Thomas is a filmmaker and Senior Lecturer at the University of East London.
1. A Brief History of Transhumanism and its Critics
2. The Logics and Trajectories of Advanced Capitalism
3. Technologies of Power and Control
4. Data Totalitarianism
5. Transcendent Conformity
6. Systemic Dehumanisation
7. Towards an Ethics for the Future: Posthumanism and Adorno’s Aporia
8. Conclusion
