Biotechnology’s Potential Impact on the Cycles of Civilization through Enhancement of the Human Mind

Abstract

Humanity has had such a profound impact on Earth that questions arise as to both their viability and future. Modern civilization is based on dynamics that, while at first relatively innocuous, have become destructive to itself and to our living planet. What can be done to preserve life on Earth and the evolutionary promise embodied in humanity? Human nature is at the root of these dynamics and what needs to be transformed to preserve and advance our potential and life on Earth. Tactics such as reducing population and mitigating industrial harm are necessary yet not sufficient in themselves to create a sustainable future. Biotechnology is a potential key to both ending the destructive cycles of civilization, human-caused pressures now stressing planetary systems, and preserving life on Earth. Bioengineering is over 12,000 years old, accelerating today, and in need of long-range, ethical guidance via an approach with potential to address our myriad challenges and transcend our failings.