Does Deep Brain Stimulation Pose - 2086 Words

Does Deep Brain Stimulation Pose a Threat to Personal Identity? Introduction Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a procedure where electrodes are surgically implanted in the brain to stimulate or inhibit electrical signals within it; the effects of DBS can be turned on and off and the level of stimulation can be adjusted. It has been shown to be effective in improving motor abilities and quality of life in those with Parkinson’s disease (Weaver, et al. 2009), and has been used for other psychiatric disorders such as anorexia, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, and more (Benabid 2007). Although DBS is very beneficial, in some cases an altered personality or state of mind is an adverse effect from the procedure. Presently, there is no conclusive definition of personal identity, but in this paper, I will focus on two notions that are frequently discussed – numerical and narrative identity. Numerical identity is the continuity of self over time, while narrative refers to the memories, experiences, etc. that answer â€Å"Who Am I?† (Lipsman and Glannon 2013). Another way of thinking about identity is in terms of core values that if changed, will also change that person’s identity (Witt, Kuhn and Timmermann 2013), I will include this view as part of narrative identity. In this paper, I will present different circumstances in which DBS caused changes in a person followed by dissenting views of how DBS may be a threat to personal identity and my responses to these views.Show MoreRelatedWhy Does Music Move Us?1099 Words   |  5 Pagesresearch studies have shown that music has a unique and profound effect on the brain. In the article, â€Å"Why Does Music Move Us?†, Do uglas McClennan claims that, as human beings, we are attracted to music and art for reasons other than entertainment. 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