Title
Rethinking autonomy in the context of direct-to-consumer neurotechnologies: A relational perspective
Abstract
Direct-to-consumer (DTC) neurotechnologies, such as brain–computer interfaces and neurowearables, are increasingly marketed to the general public with promises of improved cognitive performance and mental well-being. The growing market of these technologies raises complex ethical issues, particularly regarding their impact on personal autonomy. This contribution critically examines this question through a relational lens. Firstly, there is no proof of safety and efficacy: the limit of autonomy consists of a lack of awareness. Although these technologies prove to be safe and effective, marketing strategies could influence institutional actors—such as employers and educational organizations—which may, in turn, implicitly require or normalize their use. In this sense, the opportunities for those who cannot or do not wish to use it may be limited. Since the availability of a wide range of meaningful options is a necessary requirement for autonomy, this too could be undermined. As our imaginative self-representations are influenced by the existing cultural repertoire of images and representations, such limitation could, in turn, erode imaginative skills, intended as the ability to imagine oneself otherwise. If DTC neurotechnologies were shown to be safe and effective, disparities in access to these technologies, as well as variations in digital literacy, can reconfigure power dynamics and reinforce existing social inequalities, limiting the autonomy of marginalized groups. Moreover, there is the risk that users become dependent on DTC neurotechnologies for emotional regulation, stress management and well-being. This dependency may reinforce doubts about one’s own capacities without the device, consequently undermining individuals’ self-esteem and decreasing their perceived legitimacy as autonomous agents. Even others could challenge individual abilities and performances when these are not supported by a neurodevice. In conclusion, the impact of DTC neurotechnologies on autonomy is best understood as a relational phenomenon, shaped by social, cultural, and institutional factors as much as individual choice.
About Alessia
Forthcoming