The Quest for Human Perfection
The Faculty of Medicine at the University Hospital of Basel commissioned this study to establish an ethical framework that defines the limits of nanotechnology. The findings will benefit medical professionals and Christians seeking a biblically grounded basis for their actions in light of rapid advances in computer science, medicine, and genetic engineering.
First, the author describes historical periods from the Hellenistic era (323-31 BCE) to the Enlightenment (1650-1800) that established the philosophical and religious basis for the mechanistic worldview, evolution, the belief in the omnipotence of science, and nanotechnology development. This raises two central questions: What defines the essence of humanity? How can it be altered?
Next, the author analyzes humanity’s pursuit of perfection. The roots of perfectionism date back to the era of Greek philosophy, Hermeticism, Gnosticism, and Neoplatonism. These philosophies claim to be heirs to the “prisca theologia,” or ancient theology. This theology set the attainment of human “divinity” as its highest goal, thus representing the highest level of perfection.
Finally, the author outlines ethical standards based on Christian-Western values to ensure nanomedicine is used for the common good. This requires a respectful approach to clearly defined boundaries between machines and humans. The Christian concept of humans being created in the image of God is seen to contradict the bizarre vision of transhumanist posthumanity. The author argues that genuine scientific and technological progress can best be achieved on the basis of Christian ethics.
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