From U Oxford: The medicalization of love

Camb Q Healthc Ethics. 2014 Jun 17:1-19. [Epub ahead of print]

The medicalization of love.

Earp BD1, Sandberg A2, Savulescu J1.

Author information

• 1Uehiro Centre for Practical Ethics,University of Oxford.
• 2Oxford Centre for Neuroethics,University of Oxford.

Abstract

Pharmaceuticals or other emerging technologies could be used to enhance (or diminish) feelings of lust, attraction, and attachment in adult romantic partnerships. While such interventions could conceivably be used to promote individual (and couple) well-being, their widespread development and/or adoption might lead to "medicalization" of human love and heartache-for some, a source of serious concern. In this essay, we argue that the "medicalization of love" need not necessarily be problematic, on balance, but could plausibly be expected to have either good or bad consequences depending upon how it unfolds. By anticipating some of the specific ways in which these technologies could yield unwanted outcomes, bioethicists and others can help direct the course of love's "medicalization"-should it happen to occur-more toward the "good" side than the "bad."