This site has been permanently archived. This is a static copy provided by the University of Southampton.
%A Chuck Stieg
%T Neuroethical Considerations Regarding Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
%X Along with advances in brain technologies comes the ability to enhance the cognitive and affective states of normal people. In this essay, I examine a relatively young technology used in cognitive neuroscience called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). I explain what it is, how it works and what some of its applications are. I suggest that a potential source of reservation one might have regarding brain-altering enhancement is the threat it seemingly poses to the subjective importance of mental states. I then consider the possibility of its being used as an enhancement device and question the authenticity of abilities of individuals that are enhanced by use of TMS. I conclude that judgments regarding the appropriateness of such neurocognitive enhancements should be considered on a case by case basis.
%D 2008
%K Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, neuroethics, enhancement, technology, neuropsychiatry
%L cogprints6172