Philosopher warns tech-human integration by Musk, Altman risks ‘dehumanization’ without ethics framework
Altman is preparing to launch Merge Labs, a brain–computer interface startup that will compete directly with Musk’s Neuralink
NEW YORK, United States (MNTV) – As US billionaires push the boundaries of artificial intelligence and biotechnology, a Turkish philosophy professor has warned that brain–computer interfaces, AI implants, genetic engineering and mind uploading require urgent ethical safeguards to prevent the risk of “dehumanization.”
Ahmet Dag of Bursa Uludag University told Anadolu that projects led by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Tesla founder Elon Musk aim to surpass human biological limits by enhancing mental, physical and psychological capabilities.
According to the Financial Times, Altman is preparing to launch Merge Labs, a brain–computer interface startup that will compete directly with Musk’s Neuralink.
Dag noted that the debate on “transhumanism” was popularized years ago by futurist Ray Kurzweil. Neuralink brought the issue back into focus in 2021 when Musk promoted the idea of transferring human consciousness to machines. Altman’s entry into the field, he said, signals profound changes not only for health and education but also for the global economy and society.
“These technologies are being developed to cure paralysis, Alzheimer’s and other conditions, and advocates believe they may even help overcome illness, aging and death,” Dag said. “Some also argue they could contribute to solving global crises such as climate change, epidemics and famine.”
However, Dag warned that such advances could challenge fundamental concepts of human identity, free will, equality and dignity.
“If these projects come to fruition, even partially, the organic nature of humans and the meaning of consciousness and freedom will come into question,” he said.
Drawing parallels with myths of Prometheus and Gilgamesh, Dag said humanity has always sought to transcend its limits. But he cautioned that ignoring the cultural and metaphysical dimensions of human existence could reduce people to “mere technological devices.”
“These projects treat humans as functional and optimizable organisms,” he said. “If left to market forces and power monopolies, they could strip away essential values and lead to dehumanization.”
Dag emphasized that transhumanist technologies must be guided by principles of justice, ethics, equality and dignity.
“Technological singularity can liberate humanity if developed within an ethical framework,” he said. “Without it, the same technologies could enslave humanity.”
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