Personal autonomy in memory modification technology: a critical assessment

Memory modification technology (MMT) refers to the use of neurotechnologies to intervene in memory. Some scholars oppose the application of MMT in mental health therapy because MMT undermines personal autonomy. Such judgment is based on several different reasons: (1) MMT is an inactive intervention; (2) MMT sacrifices long-term autonomy; (3) MMT promotes paternalism; (4) MMT leads users to relinquish their social relationships. This article argues that due to the philosophical complexities of the concept of autonomy, current debates have been unable to provide a valid justification for the ethical permissibility of MMT. In fact, the autonomy-based arguments against MMT focus on conceptual aspects of autonomy other than informed consent. A focus on informed consent may be of greater moral significance. We should adopt a more practical perspective of personal autonomy and focus on the informed consent issues in MMT.