What are serious ethical issues raised by military human enhancement?

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Ready for the ASU CEE181 Final Exam? Study with flashcards and detailed explanations. Prepare to excel in Technological, Social, and Sustainable Systems.

The selected answer highlights a significant ethical concern regarding military human enhancement: the potential implications for military command and the extent of authority exercised over soldiers. When soldiers are enhanced through advanced technologies—be it physical, cognitive, or psychological enhancements—ethical dilemmas arise about the extent to which commanders can dictate their use.

This issue delves into the moral responsibilities of leadership, as enhanced capabilities could blur the lines of consent and autonomy. It raises questions about whether enhanced soldiers are still making informed decisions or if they are subjected to new forms of coercion or manipulation. Additionally, the potential for abuse of power becomes a serious concern, as enhanced soldiers may be ordered to undertake missions or tasks that they might not ethically agree to were they not under such influences.

This concern about agency and autonomy is crucial in considering the implications of military human enhancement and its alignment with ethical standards of treatment and respect for individuals. The broader impact on military culture, the treatment of soldiers, and the moral obligations of military leaders adds further depth to this issue, making it a primary ethical consideration in the discussions surrounding military enhancements.

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