Natural rights in humanism and transhumanism

Human history represents a philosophical process in which human nature has been interpreted and the position of human beings within existence has been explored. Since Antiquity, philosophy has sought to define the nature of humanity and to ground human rights accordingly. Humanism regards humans as rational beings capable of mastering nature, yet with modern technology's intervention in human genetics and physiology, this idea has deepened—humans are now seen as beings capable of mastering their own nature. This study aims to examine the relationship between humanism and transhumanism and to analyze the concept of natural rights within this framework. Transhumanism and humanism, though distinct, also share parallels that transform the understanding of natural rights. If transhumanism is viewed as anti-humanist, the entire theory of rights must be restructured; however, if it is understood as a continuation of humanism, it becomes necessary to determine how natural rights will evolve. The first part of this study discusses the relationship between humanism and natural rights within a historical framework, explaining the concept's essence and its development. From Antiquity to the Modern Age, the evolution of humanism is examined through the ideas of various philosophers. The human-centered perspective of humanism and its role in shaping modern human rights are emphasized. The second part defines transhumanism, traces its historical development, and explores its connection to humanism. Thinkers such as Nick Bostrom, Ray Kurzweil, Max More, and Julian Huxley are analyzed alongside critics like Francis Fukuyama and Jürgen Habermas. Thus, the relationship between transhumanism and humanism, as well as its potential impact on natural rights, is revealed.