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There's a large difference between steroids and Provigil, at least from the limited information given in the article. Assuming that there are no side effects f
by TGJ 16y ago
There's a large difference between steroids and Provigil, at least from the limited information given in the article. Assuming that there are no side effects from Provigil; Steroids have a definitive list of side effects that ravage the human body. In that sense, there are no comparisons. Considering the impact of the two drugs from societies view, there is also no comparison as physical strength, especially in sports, does not contribute very much to society as a whole while according to the author, Provigil has large potential to enhance every scientist to create more and better ideas that could further the human race.
I would think also, that if Provigil is something that does create smarter people, perhaps we might find that there is a deficiency in our genome that through further research could be changed to the point where no drug was needed. Of course, I for one have no problem with gene therapy and enhancement.
There always come a ethical dilemma because we have been ingrained with the belief that we are not worth of meddling with our own bodies and destiny, usually from religious sources. If not religious factors, then usually from people that wish to maintain the status quo as they are usually benefiting.
- ericd 16y agoThe thing is that it would be hard to say that there was a "widespread deficiency in the genome". For the conditions under which we evolved, it's very unlikely that an always-provigil state is unambiguously better, or that would have become the dominant type. But if the lack of appetite thing is always true, I suppose that could have historically outweighed the cognitive benefits, and now it clearly doesn't. In which case I guess you could call it a deficiency in the genome for current conditions. There might be other, longer term side effects, though.