The Ethics of Using Cognitive Performance-Enhancing Drugs

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With the growing interest in cognitive drugs (or “nootropics”) that promise to improve memory, concentration, and mental performance, ethical questions about their use have arisen. Should we allow people to use these substances to gain intellectual advantages in settings such as work and academia? On the one hand, it is argued that everyone has the right to maximize their cognitive potential. On the other hand, there are concerns about the inequality that may arise, with those who have access to these drugs gaining an unfair advantage. Furthermore, how can we address the as yet unknown long-term risks to mental health?