INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS AND THE BOURGEONING INTERFACE BETWEEN TRANSHUMANISM AND ALLIED SCIENCES: QUANDARIES, PARALLELS AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

This article is premised on the ideological underpinnings of trans- humanism, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and their burgeoning intersection with international human rights norms. It adopts the doctrinal research methodology. The article finds that the shared commonalities between trans-humanism and human rights is predicated on the imperative of preserving human life. It indicates that there are nuances and marked discrepancies between trans-humanism alongside allied sciences and human rights. Although artificial intelligence has enhanced human capabilities, it has posed a serious threat to human employment. Transhumanism is based on the notion that scientific innovations would eventually enable humans live indefinitely. Conversely, some religious tenets hold the unflinching view that the prospects of human immortality is wholly subject to divine providence rather than human ingenuity. The article recommends the establishment of legal mechanisms vested with the responsibility of exploring ways humans can continue to earn a living amidst the deployment of robotics in the contemporary work environment. It espouses the idea of freedom of choice over how individuals enable their lives taking cognizance of human rights jurisprudence circumscribed by groundbreaking developments in science and its impact on humanity in the 21st century.