Exploring Human, Medicine, and Society

Innovations in medical technology are rapidly advancing, leading to groundbreaking changes. These developments are redefining the limits of human experience and challenging social, cultural, legal, ethical, and political norms. From genome editing and eugenics to advanced reproductive technologies and health apps that monitor our well-being, the interplay of medicine, science, and technology prompts a reassessment of both individual and collective life.

Since 2008, I have been engaged in studying the adaptation between humans and machines in Neuroscience. In 2015, I earned my doctoral degree based on my work “The Techno-Cerebral Subject,” where I analyzed neuroscientific practices of adaptation between the human/brain and machine/computer using Brain-Computer Interfaces in chronic stroke rehabilitation projects as a case study. I have highlighted how the mutual adaptation of patient and machine leads to the bio-technical form of the Cyborg and constitutes patients as subjects who conform to a cerebro-centric conception.

As an independent researcher, I dedicate myself to exploring how medical innovations affect not only the individual level but also transform traditional societal structures. I investigate the complex interactions between science, technology, and medicine, analyzing how these elements engage within various social contexts.

From May 2015 to September 2023, I led the research field “Human, Medicine, and Society” that I developed at the Orient-Institut Istanbul, part of the Max Weber Foundation. Specifically, I directed projects on the transformation processes of bodies and medicine within the complex topic of “Human Enhancement.” Key aspects include researching techno-medical and scientific practices, digital health, and disability. I employ comparative research approaches in my projects on assistive and enhancement technologies (e.g., Brain-Computer Interfaces, bionic prostheses, self-trackers), where a Europe-wide comparative approach is fruitful due to different cultural, data protection, biopolitical, and economic conditions. This approach helps to understand complex innovation paths and demonstrate socio-technical transformation processes in medicine. Practical relevance is of utmost importance in all my projects.

• Current and completed projects can be found here.

• All events related to the research field can be found here.