Classical notions may no longer seem applicable to reality by the new descriptions offered, and our habitual, accustomed attitudes or ways of life may come to appear threatened. Rapid scientific advance seems to outstrip our moral sensibility and judgement. Consider, for example, the fact that we learn more and more about genetic dispositions that may or may not develop. Concepts such as human dignity, and integrity are essential parts of this debate.
Similar problems emerge with non-human uses of biotechnology.
The release of genetically modified organisms into nature, for instance, may have a profound impact on the existing gene pool. It is traditionally assumed that for each single 'normal' human being, the number of personalities, persons, or selves must be exactly one. Various forms and interpretations of this belief have dominated most of mankind's intellectual history both in philosophy, science, religion, psychiatry, legal and social theory. But allusions to divided, fragmented minds, and to multiple, successive selves are nowadays commonplace in both theoretical and empirical studies. We no longer accept unquestioningly the various Western traditions these concepts challenge, which posit a single subject of experiences in every human.