Civil liability, post-humanism, transhumanism, and biohacking a brief legal analysis

Main Article Content

Mafalda Miranda Barbosa

Abstract

In the article the theme of biohacking and its legal implications in terms of civil liability and its connections with posthumanism and transhumanism is discussed. Biohacking is a practice that encompasses a wide range of activities, from modifying lifestyle habits to genetic manipulation. Some examples include the use of dietary supplements, intermittent fasting, precise dietary control, the use of body monitoring devices, dietary restrictions, consumption of anti-aging medications and smart drugs, among others. These practices share the common intention of improving physical and mental efficiency or even prolonging life, going beyond the prevention and cure of diseases. Biohacking intersects with transhumanism, which is the pursuit of transcending humanity through technological evolution, envisioning a dystopian future where technology will have profound impacts on human beings. Possible alterations to the digestive system, blood, heart, and human brain are envisioned, as well as the ability to project the mind into virtual environments and choose different bodies. The article reflects on the acceptability of these practices and the ethical and legal dilemmas that arise with the advancement of biohacking.

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Article Details

How to Cite
BARBOSA, Mafalda Miranda. Civil liability, post-humanism, transhumanism, and biohacking: a brief legal analysis. Revista IBERC, Belo Horizonte, v. 6, n. 2, p. 148–170, 2023. DOI: 10.37963/iberc.v6i2.266. Disponível em: https://revista.iberc.org.br/iberc/article/view/266. Acesso em: 30 oct. 2026.
Section
Foreign Doctrine
Author Biography

Mafalda Miranda Barbosa, Universidade de Coimbra, Portugal

Doutora em Direito pela Faculdade de Direito da Universidade de Coimbra. Professora da Faculdade de Direito da Universidade de Coimbra. Membro do IBERC.