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A practical approach to the ethical use of memory modulating technologies.

Shawn Zheng Kai TanLee Wei Lim
Published in: BMC medical ethics (2020)
While at face value, our model appears to put severe limitations on the application of MMTs, we are not completely opposed to their use, but rather our framework guides the agent to consider the implications before making any decisions. Most importantly, we argue that the use of MMTs does not reduce the responsibility of the initial decision, and the agent must accept the post-MMT self as the new "true self" regardless of the outcome. As the developmental trajectory of MMTs suggests we are getting closer to practical clinical applications, ethical concerns across a wide range of disciplines need to be addressed to develop best strategies and policies when dealing with MMTs. If this can be achieved, we believe the ethical use of MMTs is not only possible but would also be of tremendous benefit to many people suffering from memory-related mental disorders.
Keyphrases
  • decision making
  • working memory
  • public health
  • signaling pathway
  • early onset
  • drug induced