Genetic Engineering Ethics

The beginning of the industrialization era has been marked as revolutionary for the human race. Within the last few decades, rapid changes in technology have brought ease into the daily lives of human beings, from the creation of jobs, to the ability to talk to loved ones overseas. However, are there ethical limits upon how far science may progress? With science fiction slowly becoming reality, technological advances such as gene editing have given scientists the ability to alter genetic traits to suit the needs of humans. At first, it may seem like a breakthrough humanity desperately needs to overcome many obstacles facing the human race. However, this highly controversial process could lead to unintended consequences due to limitations in
This meeting was similar to one that took place in 1975, however, the stakes were much higher. Everyone at this meeting had access to a tool that could give humanity the ‘source code’ of life, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR). Previous genetic editing techniques were already available before CRISPR, so why was this so significant? To put it into simple terms, imagine a keyboard with a single function of typing letters. That was the level of gene editing we were capable of achieving before. Now, with CRISPR, you are given access to arrow keys, a space bar, backspace, and one of the most powerful tools, “CTRL F”. This technique could revolutionize humanity, but just like any revolution, it comes with several risks, consequences, and implications. CRISPR could allow researchers to conjure science fiction ideas into reality. Ideas such as designer babies, mutants, or even an army of genetically modified super
We may fear of creating a world where we will reject imperfect humans and certain qualities based upon our prejudice, and preconceived perceptions of beauty and intelligence. Once the first engineered child is born, a door will open that cannot be closed. By permitting human gene editing, it would sooner or later lead to an adaptation for other enhanced purposes. Genetic engineering markets could also emerge, increasing existing inequality and discrimination challenges around the world. Some of the largest universities in the USA are already engaged in a war over the patent on CRISPR which is said to be worth billions of dollars. Although some countries do have legislations that ban genetic modification, a lot of other countries such as the United States have unenforceable guidelines. Even if the process of CRISPR were to be perfected beyond measure, there are still many implications and risks upon the implementation of gene editing in society and how it will be regulated by governments and organizations. Many may also argue whose consent will be taken into consideration when scientists begin to play the role of