Tuesday 12 May 2026, 5.30pm - 7pm
Online - Please contact Andrew Moeller to express interest regarding the readings and video call link: andrew.moeller@history.ox.ac.uk.
The particular topic under focus this week will be preimplantation genetic testing.
Boundaries of Humanity Discussion Group Series
With the rapid development of AI and biotechnologies (including those relating to germline gene editing, brain-computer Interfaces, life extension, etc.) come vast powers to reshape ourselves and the natural world. As technological advances grant us new powers, so do they blur some boundaries between humans, animals, and machines, prodding us to ask the question: what does it mean to be human?
Drawing upon readings in the humanities (including philosophy, theology, literature, etc.) and the sciences, this group will attempt to bridge the existential and empirical study of human identity - and within that context, ask if and how such reflections might help chart a path forward in relation to the right uses of new and potent technologies. We will focus in particular on questions of human purpose, place, and flourishing within the natural order.
The reading group is open to students at all levels of study (including medical students), as well as faculty. We will meet for about 1 hour, twice per term.
Under the umbrella of the medical humanities, this will be a casual reading and discussion group. The readings for each session will be introduced by a different participant - and the readings for each session will take a total of roughly 1 hour to complete.
Special Guest:
Heloise Robinson is a Stipendiary Lecturer in Law at St Hugh’s, and previously worked as a Lecturer or as a Fellow at other Oxford colleges. During the 2025-2026 academic year, she is also an Academic Visitor at the Uehiro Oxford Institute, where she is conducting research on applied ethics. Her main interests relate to medical law and bioethics, disability law and philosophy, equality, and feminist legal theory. She is also a qualified barrister and solicitor in Ontario, Canada, and prior to starting her academic work practised law for some years.
Medical Humanities Research Hub, TORCH Research Hubs
