The Panpsycast Philosophy Podcast
Episode 61, David Pearce on Transhumanism (Part I - Transhumanism)
Jun 2, 2019
David Pearce, a prominent transhumanist and author of 'The Hedonistic Imperative,' discusses his vision of a suffering-free world through biotechnology. He dives into the relevance of philosophy in our scientific age, tackling profound questions about consciousness and morality. Pearce shares his journey as a first-generation vegan, influenced by his grandmother's legacy, while exploring the ethics of compassion towards animals. He also examines transhumanism's promise of super longevity and happiness, challenging listeners to rethink their responsibilities and the implications of advanced technologies.
57:10
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Quick takeaways
- Transhumanism aims to transcend biological limitations, seeking a future with enhanced cognitive abilities and the abolition of suffering for all sentient beings.
- David Pearce emphasizes the ethical responsibility to eliminate suffering not only in humans but also to address the exploitation of animals.
Deep dives
The Vision of Transhumanism
Transhumanism advocates for transcending biological limitations to create a future focused on super longevity, super intelligence, and super happiness. It rejects the notion that aging, suffering, and the limitations of biological existence are immutable laws of nature. For example, proponents like Aubrey de Grey propose that advancements in medical technology could potentially lead people to live indefinitely. This movement envisions a future where humans can enhance their cognitive and emotional capacities significantly, ultimately aiming to eliminate suffering across all sentient beings.
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