Book Review: The Art of Being Posthuman by Francesca Ferrando
The Art of Being Posthuman by Francesca Ferrando
This blog is a part of book review. A book which is written by Francesca Ferrando. "The Art of Being Posthuman: who are we in the 21st Century?"
Francesca Ferrando’s book The Art of Being Posthuman explores what it means to be human in a world that is constantly changing. She introduces the idea of posthumanism—not just as an academic concept but as a way of living and thinking. Written during the COVID-19 pandemic, the book reflects on how global crises make us question our identity, our place in the world, and our connection with others. Ferrando argues that posthumanism can help us navigate these challenges by moving beyond old ideas about human superiority and embracing a more flexible, interconnected way of thinking.
The book is divided into eight sections, each focusing on different aspects of posthumanism, such as identity, artificial intelligence, technology, and nature. It combines philosophy, science, and spirituality to help readers understand how posthumanism applies to real life. The Art of Being Posthuman is about how philosophy can help us navigate an uncertain future. Francesca Ferrando’s The Art of Being Posthuman draws from a wide range of philosophers, theorists, and intellectual traditions to explore the evolving concept of posthumanism. She engages with posthumanist and transhumanist thinkers like Rosi Braidotti, N. Katherine Hayles, and Donna Haraway, alongside classical philosophers such as Nietzsche, Heidegger, and Foucault, to question human identity, power, and technological evolution. Feminist perspectives from Simone de Beauvoir, Judith Butler, and Luce Irigaray further shape her discussion on gender and embodiment, while Eastern and Indigenous philosophies highlight interconnectedness and non-duality.
Ferrando also incorporates scientific and ecological perspectives, referencing Alan Turing on AI, Ray Kurzweil on singularity, and deep ecology theories from Arne Naess. Metaphysical insights from Spinoza and Teilhard de Chardin add a spiritual dimension, emphasizing consciousness and evolution. By weaving these diverse ideas together, Ferrando presents posthumanism as not just an academic theory but a necessary framework for addressing today’s social, technological, and environmental challenges. A particularly powerful aspect of the book is Ferrando’s personal honesty. She does not position herself as an authority but as a fellow traveler in the search for meaning. She openly reflects on the doubts and fears that arose during the pandemic, making the book feel deeply human despite its focus on posthumanism.
What is Posthumanism ?
Posthumanism is a philosophical perspective that challenges traditional human-centered views by emphasizing the interconnectedness of humans, non-human entities, and technology. It critiques the classical humanist notion that humans are distinct and superior to other forms of life, proposing instead that humans are part of a complex web of relationships with animals, machines, and the environment. This approach encourages a reevaluation of ethics and identity, recognizing the fluid boundaries between human and non-human, natural and artificial, and self and other. By doing so, posthumanism seeks to move beyond anthropocentrism and embrace a more inclusive understanding of existence.
Posthumanism is a broad philosophical perspective that challenges traditional ideas of what it means to be human. Francesca Ferrando describes it as an evolving framework that moves beyond human-centered thinking and embraces a more interconnected view of existence. It consists of three key aspects: post-humanism, which critiques how the concept of "human" has historically been used to exclude and oppress certain groups; post-anthropocentrism, which rejects the idea of human superiority over other species and emphasizes coexistence; and post-dualism, which seeks to move beyond rigid binary oppositions that have shaped social and philosophical thought. Posthumanism questions hierarchies, recognizes the influence of technology and biology on human evolution, and encourages a shift in awareness that acknowledges the interconnectedness of all beings—human and non-human. By dismantling outdated structures of power and identity, posthumanism offers a more inclusive and holistic way of understanding existence.
Posthumanism and the Lessons from the Pandemic
Ferrando explains that writing this book during the COVID-19 pandemic was both difficult and meaningful. The pandemic exposed many weaknesses in society, such as social inequality, environmental damage, and the limits of human control. It forced people to think deeply about life and death, making them realize how fragile human existence is.
During this time, many people questioned whether posthumanism was just another academic topic or if it could truly help them understand the world. Ferrando believes that posthumanism is not just a theory—it is a practical way of looking at life. It teaches us to accept change, recognize our connection with technology and nature, and move beyond outdated ideas about what it means to be human.
This makes her book more than just a study of posthumanism—it is a personal reflection on human survival, growth, and transformation during times of crisis.
Overview of Themes
One of the book’s central arguments is the need to move beyond anthropocentrism, the belief that humans are the most important entities in existence. Ferrando critiques the Western humanist tradition, which has historically prioritized human intelligence and control over nature, and instead promotes an awareness of inter-being—a deep interconnectedness between humans, non-human animals, ecosystems, and even artificial intelligence. This shift in perspective encourages readers to reconsider their place in the world and adopt a more ethical, inclusive approach to existence.
A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the evolving nature of posthuman subjectivity. Ferrando challenges conventional understandings of identity, arguing that rigid humanist definitions—such as those based on gender, nationality, or species—are no longer sufficient. Instead, she advocates for a fluid, evolving selfhood that embraces hybridity and transformation. This is especially relevant in a world where technology is reshaping human experiences and blurring the boundaries between human and machine.
The role of artificial intelligence (AI) and Big Data is another major focus of the book. Ferrando examines how these digital advancements are challenging traditional notions of intelligence and agency. As AI systems become increasingly sophisticated, they raise complex ethical and philosophical questions about the nature of consciousness. The book invites readers to reflect on how digital technologies are influencing human thought, relationships, and decision-making processes.
Technology is not a separate force that will save or destroy humanity; rather, it is an intrinsic part of who we are. By stating,
Ferrando challenges the idea of technology as an external entity, instead presenting it as something deeply embedded in human existence. This reflects a core posthumanist perspective that human identity is not fixed but evolves alongside technology, blurring the boundaries between the biological and the artificial.
Another key theme is ecological posthumanism, which argues for the recognition of the rights of nature and the importance of sustainability. Ferrando highlights the urgency of moving away from exploitative human-centered models and toward a more harmonious relationship with the planet. By integrating environmental ethics into posthumanism, the book provides a compelling argument for rethinking our responsibilities to the natural world.
In discussing biotechnology and the posthuman body, Ferrando explores how advancements such as genetic engineering, prosthetics, and artificial limbs are pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human. She questions whether these developments signify an evolution beyond biological determinism or if they reinforce existing social hierarchies. This discussion is especially relevant in light of contemporary debates on transhumanism and the ethics of human enhancement.
A particularly intriguing aspect of the book is its engagement with quantum physics and Eastern philosophy. Ferrando draws from Buddhist thought and existentialism to argue that reality is not fixed but fluid and interconnected. This perspective aligns with recent scientific discoveries suggesting that consciousness and material existence are more intertwined than previously thought. Through this lens, the book invites readers to view themselves not as isolated beings but as part of a vast, dynamic web of existence.
While The Art of Being Posthuman does not explicitly address the COVID-19 pandemic, its themes strongly resonate with the experience of lockdowns and isolation. The forced shift to digital life, the re-evaluation of personal identity outside of traditional social structures, and the growing reliance on technology all mirror the book’s posthumanist themes. Lockdown, in many ways, served as a real-world experiment in posthuman existence, highlighting both the limitations of humanist thinking and the possibilities of digital transformation.
The book concludes with a call to action, urging readers to embrace posthuman awareness as a way of life. Ferrando suggests that by stepping beyond outdated humanist ideals and accepting the fluidity of identity, individuals can cultivate a deeper sense of connection with the world around them.
Critical Analysis
One of the greatest strengths of The Art of Being Posthuman is its interdisciplinary approach. Ferrando successfully blends philosophy, science, technology, and spirituality, making the book accessible to readers from diverse backgrounds. Her ability to integrate different fields into a cohesive narrative demonstrates the complexity of posthuman thought while maintaining an engaging and reflective tone.
Another major strength is the book’s clarity and accessibility. Unlike many academic texts on posthumanism, which can be dense and difficult to navigate, Ferrando’s writing is engaging and thought-provoking. She presents complex ideas in a way that is easy to grasp, making the book suitable for both scholars and general readers.
The book’s relevance to contemporary issues also makes it a significant contribution to posthumanist discourse. The discussions on AI ethics, climate change, digital identity, and biotechnology directly address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. By framing these issues within a posthumanist perspective, Ferrando encourages readers to rethink their relationship with the world and consider new possibilities for the future.
However, the book does have some limitations. At times, its abstract nature may be challenging for readers unfamiliar with posthumanist theory. While the meditative approach is unique and insightful, some readers may find certain sections lacking in practical applications. More concrete case studies or real-world examples of posthumanism in action—such as ethical debates surrounding AI, transhumanist experiments, or policy changes related to environmental ethics—could strengthen the book’s argument.
Additionally, while the book does a remarkable job of bridging philosophy and science, some discussions on quantum physics and consciousness might feel speculative rather than empirically grounded. Readers looking for a more strictly scientific exploration of these topics may find these sections less satisfying.
Conclusion
The Art of Being Posthuman is a deeply insightful and transformative book that challenges readers to rethink their identity beyond traditional humanist frameworks. Francesca Ferrando successfully bridges philosophy, science, and personal reflection, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in posthumanism, AI ethics, environmental sustainability, and the future of human identity.
One of the most inspiring aspects of this book is how Ferrando weaves together multiple philosophical traditions and scholars. She does not claim to have all the answers but instead invites readers to explore ideas from thinkers like Friedrich Nietzsche, Martin Heidegger, and Gilles Deleuze.
As I reflect on today, March 22, 2025, five years after the first lockdown, I see how much the world has changed. AI, climate change, and biotechnology are shaping our reality in ways we never imagined. Ferrando’s book reminds us that philosophy is not just for academics—it is for everyone navigating a rapidly changing world.
Reading this book felt like being part of a larger intellectual conversation. It challenged me to rethink my assumptions about what it means to be human. Ferrando’s reflections on the pandemic also resonated deeply—her honesty about confronting mortality made me realize that philosophy is not just about abstract debates; it is about how we live our lives.
What makes this book stand out is its ability to turn posthumanism into a lived experience rather than just an academic concept. By encouraging self-reflection and mindfulness, Ferrando provides readers with tools to navigate the challenges of an evolving world.
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