Stefan Lorenz Sorgner, "We Have Always Been Cyborgs: Digital Data, Gene Technologies, and an Ethics of Transhumanism" (Bristol UP, 2023)

In this podcast, Professor Stefan Lorenz Sorgner discusses his book, "We Have Always Been Cyborgs," which delves into the relationship between critical posthumanism and transhumanism. Sorgner posits that humans have always been cyborgs, as our rationality is shaped by technology, learned experiences, and our interactions with the environment. He critiques the traditional divide between nature and culture, arguing that it fosters discrimination. Sorgner advocates for a transhumanist perspective that leverages technology to enhance human abilities, especially in terms of healthspan. However, he warns against a purely libertarian view of transhumanism, stressing the importance of social justice and fair access to advancements. He suggests that digital data could be utilized to support universal healthcare, helping to bridge the gap between the privileged and the underprivileged.