Human Enhancement Technology Should Be Embraced to Maximize Human Potential
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/by/interesting-times. "Opinion | Better Sex, Better Hair, Better Sleep: ‘Humanmaxxing’ Is Here - The New York Times." June 11, 2026. www.nytimes.com
The Gist
Christian Angermayer argues we should use technology like performance drugs, AI, and psychedelics to make humans the best versions of themselves. He believes this will create a better society where people work less and focus more on being social, while safely pushing the limits of what our bodies and minds can do.
Conclusion
We should embrace human enhancement technologies (biotech, performance enhancing drugs, AI, psychedelics) to maximize human potential rather than fear becoming 'something different'
Premises
- Humans are already awesome and enhancement technology helps us maximize the potential that's already within us
- AI and robotics will reduce the need for human labor, freeing us to be more social and human
- FDA-approved performance enhancing drugs are safer than arbitrary sporting organization rules
- Psychedelics can help treat mental health issues and help humanity adapt to rapid technological change
- Enhancement allows older athletes to perform better than in their prime, demonstrating we can 'reverse time'
- The current system of unpaid Olympic athletes treats them as 'props' rather than recognizing their value
- Technology and science consistently lead to positive outcomes for humanity
Assumptions
- Maximizing human potential is inherently good
- FDA approval is a reliable standard for safety and efficacy
- Reducing human labor through automation will lead to positive social outcomes
- Athletic performance enhancement translates to broader human improvement
- Rapid technological change is inevitable and requires adaptation tools