Futures and Ethics of Bio Hacking

Опубликовано: 12 Июль 2026
на канале: Modem Futura
27
2

In this episode, hosts Sean and Andrew jump right into the complex themes surrounding biohacking, data ownership, and the ethical implications of genetic data. They explore the historical context of data ownership, the evolution of biohacking, and the responsibilities that come with technological advancements. The conversation also highlights the case of 23andMe, discussing the potential risks and benefits of personal data collection and the need for regulations to protect individuals. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of balancing innovation with ethical considerations as we navigate the future of technology and humanity.


Links:

• Andrew's 23andMe Substack article  (https://futureofbeinghuman.com/p/23an...)

Key conversational takeaways

• Ownership of personal data raises significant ethical questions about identity and privacy.
• Technological advancements can lead to unforeseen consequences that require careful consideration.
• Biohacking can range from non-invasive methods to more extreme measures, blurring the lines of medical ethics.
• The future of personal data is uncertain, especially with companies like 23andMe facing challenges.
• Synthetic data could provide opportunities for innovation while protecting individual privacy.
• The intersection of technology and humanity requires ongoing dialogue about ethics and responsibility.
• Exploring the unknown possibilities of biohacking can lead to both positive and negative outcomes.

Chapters


00:00 Exploring the Future of Humanity


01:09 The Ownership of Data and Identity


04:27 Understanding Biohacking: Definitions and Implications


10:22 The Balance of Innovation and Responsibility


13:40 The Case of 23andMe: Data Privacy and Ethics


20:26 The Future of Personal Data and Its Consequences


26:07 Synthetic Data: Opportunities and Ethical Considerations


32:55 Biohacking: The Intersection of Technology and Humanity


 


 






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Host Bios:


Sean M. Leahy, PhD - ASU Bio (https://search.asu.edu/profile/3183014)
Sean is an internationally recognized technologist, futurist, and educator innovating humanistic approaches to emerging technology through a Futures Studies approach. He is the Executive Director for the Future of Being Human Initiative (https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu/) and Research Scientist for the School for the Future of Innovation in Society (https://sfis.asu.edu/) and Senior Global Futures Scholar with the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory (https://globalfutures.asu.edu/) at Arizona State University (http://www.asu.edu/) .


Andrew Maynard, PhD - ASU Bio (https://search.asu.edu/profile/2670673)
Andrew is a scientist, author, thought leader, and Professor of Advanced Technology Transitions in the ASU School for the Future of Innovation in Society (https://sfis.asu.edu/) . He is the founder of the ASU Future of Being Human initiative (https://futureofbeinghuman.asu.edu/) , Director of the ASU Risk Innovation Nexus (https://riskinnovation.org/) , and was previously Associate Dean in the ASU College of Global Futures (https://collegeofglobalfutures.asu.edu/) .


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