We have the pleasure to invite you to a research seminar in the ‘BIOUNCERTAINTY’ research project. The subject of the seminar is 'Personality and authenticity in light of the memory-modifying potential of optogenetics' and it will be delivered by Przemysław Zawadzki (Jagiellonian University). The seminar will take place on Thursday, 26th of November, at 5:30pm on MS Teams (link below).

Abstract: There has been a growing interest in research concerning memory modification technologies (MMTs) in recent years. Neuroscientists and psychologists are beginning to explore the prospect of controllable and intentional modification of human memory. One of the technologies with the greatest potential to this end is optogenetics—an invasive neuromodulation technique involving the use of light to control the activity of individual brain cells. It has recently shown the potential to modify specific long-term memories in animal models in ways not yet possible with other MMTs. As the therapeutic potential of optogenetics has already prompted approval of the first human trials, it is especially important and timely to consider the opportunities and dangers this technology may entail. In this article, we focus on possible consequences of optogenetics as an MMT by analyzing one of the most fundamental threats potentially associated with memory modifications: the potential disruption of a person’s authenticity.

Przemysław Zawadzki is a PhD Student in Institute of Philosophy of Jagiellonian University. He specializes in neuroethics and philosophy of mind. Currently, he is working on his research grant "Self in the Context of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) Systems. Issues of Personal Identity, Authenticity, Autonomy and Responsibility" and papers concerning neuroethics of memory modification technologies (MMTs).

Join the meeting here