engleski

Biohacking – the case of students at the University of Zagreb

The continuous development of science and technology has enabled various biomedical "improvements" of our own biology. Self-induced treatments with the purpose of overcoming physical and mental constraints are referred to as biohacking. Its underlying idea is that we do not need to accept our bodies’ imperfections, but can surpass them using a range of high- and low-tech and pharmacological solutions. This do- it-yourself trend directed towards someone’s own biology is a reflection of society’s tendencies of enhancing productivity, performance and sex appeal. However, there is considerable controversy about non-medically trained people determining and interpreting the detailed state of their own bodies and then making changes to achieve certain goals. The student population is particularly vulnerable and susceptible to the use of these practices. In addition to being exposed to academic and social pressures, they are willing to experiment with new experiences and risk exposure. The talk will present the biohacking practices of students at the University of Zagreb while focusing on their use of legal and illegal substances with the intention of enhancing their cognitive abilities and physical appearance. In addition, we will compare them to practices of their colleagues from other countries in the European Union and the world. The results show that despite the small percentage of students prone to practices of enhancing their cognitive capabilities and physical appearance, this trend is expected to continue and grow in the coming years. This will be especially true for those students who study at highly competitive faculties and/or are hoping for prestigious and well-paid jobs in the job market. This is the first study of its kind in Croatia, with the goal of exploring biohacking trends and raising an awareness about their presence and their ethical and health related dilemmas.

biohacking ; enhancement ; bioethics ; cognitive capabilities ; physical appearance ; health ; illegal substances

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