The term transhumanism in its modern sense originated in a 1990 essay titled Transhumanism: Toward a Futurist Philosophy. Authored by Max More, this work established a framework for examining emerging technologies and the implications of human evolution. More, who maintains United States citizenship, operates at the intersection of professional philosophy and active futurist research.
Academic Background
Born in Bristol in 1964, More pursued his undergraduate studies at St Anne's College, Oxford. He successfully completed his degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics in 1987. He later transitioned to the University of Southern California to continue his academic development. In 1995, he submitted his doctoral dissertation, The Diachronic Self: Identity, Continuity, and Transformation. This research explored core concerns for transhumanists, specifically focusing on the definition of death and the mechanisms of personal continuity throughout significant changes over an individual lifespan.
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More established the Extropy Institute to further the discussion of transhumanist thought. His written contributions include the Principles of Extropy, a set of guidelines defining the philosophy of extropianism. These texts advocate for the application of emerging technologies to overcome biological limitations. His work is situated within the broader professionalized landscape of contemporary philosophy, though it specifically addresses the non-traditional subject of future technological advancement.
Professional Tenure and Collaboration
Between 2010 and 2020, More served as the president and CEO of the Alcor Life Extension Foundation. During his career, he has engaged in frequent public speaking, writing, and consulting regarding the trajectory of technical progress. In 1996, he married Natasha Vita-More, a fellow transhumanist. The pair engage in collaborative research regarding life extension and the development of transhumanist strategies.
Fast facts
- Born: 1964, Bristol, England
- Citizenship: United States
- Education: St Anne's College, Oxford; University of Southern California
- Major Work: The Diachronic Self (1995)
- Professional Role: President and CEO, Alcor Life Extension Foundation (2010-2020)
- Spouse: Natasha Vita-More
Questions readers ask
What is the focus of Max More's doctoral dissertation?
His 1995 dissertation titled The Diachronic Self examined the nature of death and the factors that maintain individual identity over time.
What major philosophical concept did More define in 1990?
He introduced the term transhumanism in its modern sense within his essay Transhumanism: Toward a Futurist Philosophy.
