Technologies of Self-Perfection

What would the Buddha do with nanotechnology and psychopharmaceuticals?

Last year, at a conference at MIT on the contribution of Buddhism to brain sciences, molecular biologist Eric Lander suggested that in 20 years “the US surgeon general might recommend 60 minutes of mental exercise five times a week.” I hope not. It would probably have as little effect on mental health as the recommendation to exercise regularly and eat five helpings of vegetables has had on obesity and health. It would also mean that progress in neurotechnology had ground to a halt before 2005. In 20 years we should have far easier alternatives.