Sir

Current issues are assessed by Henry Greely and colleagues, but their Commentary 'Towards responsible use of cognitive-enhancing drugs by the healthy' (Nature 456, 702–705; 2008) contains a bias consistent with current Western culture. The use of these drugs is probably older than recorded history. They have often been used regardless of social convention or rules — and have had impacts on societies.

In the 1960s, 'mind-altering drugs' had a different connotation from the present, exemplified by Timothy Leary's “Turn on, tune in and drop out” philosophy. Drugs such as marijuana and LSD were said to enhance individual thinking and creativity, but research both on the mental effects of these drugs and on their use has decreased. Since then, the use of mind-altering drugs has shifted towards enhancing performance, usually with amphetamine analogues. It seems that these are becoming acceptable when used for the goal of efficient production in standardized ways.

See also Risks and benefits may turn out to be finely balanced Much ado about cognitive enhancement A medical view of potential adverse effects Recall of learned information may rely on taking drug again Careful use helps me do better research, and society benefits Enhancement means a broader role for physicians