A COST TO SELF?Critics of enhancement question whether people really will be happier if enhancement projects are allowed to come to fruition.According to these critics, philosophers have long held that true happiness does not come from enhanced physical prowess or dramatically longer life, but from good character and virtuous living.“Happiness is found in marriages, in families, in neighborhoods … in people who are willing to sacrifice and suffer for others,” Brugger says.“None of these are promised by enhancement.”

Happiness is found in marriages, in families, in neighborhoods … None of these are promised by enhancement.Christian Brugger, St. John Vianney Theological Seminary

“Happiness also is found in limits, says Agar of Victoria University.“There are things that I value and am proud of in my life, like my recent book,” he says.“But how can I value the writing of my book if I’ve been cognitively enhanced, and doing such a thing becomes much easier?”

But supporters contend that life still will be meaningful and challenging in a world where enhancement is widespread.