Enhancing the Mind? Memory, Anti-Aging, and The Biosocial Brain

Stephen Katz

Trent University, Peterborough, Canada

This paper explores current meanings of memory and aging as they intersect with four cultural areas: First, the discourses and metaphors of mind by which Western thought has individualized memory as the guarantor of civilized personhood and continuous rational consciousness. Second, the history of the brain sciences which, since the nineteenth century, have reduced memory to localized and measurable brain function. This includes the emergence of Alzheimer Disease in the twentieth century as it has challenged the scientific community to connect neurological research with care practices. Third, the modern development of a biosocial order whereby genetic, reproductive, neurochemical, and pharmacological technologies are remapping and even reversing the boundaries between the natural, the real, the cultural, and the artificial. As human biology has become identified with mutability, the brain has become a biosocial laboratory into which human attributes such as memory are embodied as opportunities for research, experimentation, and intervention.

Finally, the anti-aging movement and its fantastical mission to optimize aging through the enhancement of the mind are discussed. The case of current memory medicines, in particular the cholinesterase inhibitors, will be reviewed as an example of the cultural interaction between anti-aging culture and the biosocial order. Conclusions ponder how cultural narratives that connect aging, mind, and personhood are affected by living in a hypercognitive society that expects infallible cognitive skills.