Table 1 An overview of the three technologies and their associated story theme
Enhancement technologies in teenagers | Preventive interventions for genetically ‘at risk’ adults | Ageing in a high-tech world | |
|---|---|---|---|
Technologies | A shirt with embedded sensors that provide real-time feedback about the mental state and cognitive performance of the person wearing it. | Implantable cardiac ‘rectifier’ that destroys cells genetically susceptible to cause arrhythmia later. | An assistive personal robot connected to the Internet, which can interact with individuals and the built environment (using face, voice and object recognition). |
Used with meditation techniques, the shirt can help one learn about oneself | The rectifier transmits data to a centralized system where experts confirm its plan of action | The robot is used at home and can ‘learn’ from its owner by asking questions and memorizing responses | |
Story theme | Finding ways to be oneself while building skills and competence to move towards adulthood. | Pondering genetic risks and uncertainties while deciding whether or not to intervene in an otherwise healthy body. | Adapting to successive transitional states and a gradual loss of mental and physical abilities while seeking to remain autonomous as long as possible. |