Why is human enhancement considered an ethical issue "only in degree"?

The assertion that human enhancement is considered an ethical issue "only in degree" aligns with the understanding that many individuals in developed countries are already enhanced through existing medical technologies, such as vaccines. This framing suggests that enhancements, to some extent, are a standard and accepted part of modern healthcare and societal norms.

The concept highlights that many people already benefit from enhancements that improve health, longevity, and quality of life. Vaccines serve as an example because they not only prevent diseases but also contribute to the overall well-being of populations, thus blurring the line between natural human capabilities and enhancements. Consequently, the discourse around ethical implications shifts when enhancements are seen as extensions of existing medical practices rather than entirely novel or extreme interventions.

In this context, ethical concerns arise predominantly when considering more radical forms of enhancement that may fundamentally change human capabilities or introduce significant risks or inequities. This gradual acknowledgment reflects the complexities of human enhancement within the societal landscape, where the incremental nature of enhancements influences ethical considerations.