The Pros And Cons Of Genetic Modification

Since the mid-1900s, researchers have been studying and developing the concept of genetic modification in bacteria, crops, animals and even humans. Successes with these studies have led to numerous improvements in humanity’s way of life, such as the production of human insulin, the Human Genome Project, and GMO crops, which allow farmers to harvest disease, climate, and pest resistant produce. Since the 1980s, scientists have been researching a technology that w was more recently named CRISPR; This system allows bacteria to defend itself from viruses by altering its own genetic code. It was eventually discovered that CRISPR is programmable and, thanks to the discovery of a protein known as Cas9 in 2012, very precise. This discovery was a complete revolution in the science of genetic engineering as it is predicted to allow powerful genetic modification in all types of cells.
Many scientists theorize that CRISPR could cure many illnesses plaguing even the healthiest countries such as cancer, HIV, as well as thousands of other diseases, including those hereditarily contracted.
Most would agree, such a possibility will undoubtedly be good for humanity. However, there are other uses of CRISPR that will likely lead to much ethical debate: bio-engineered soldiers, designer babies, or even anti-aging. Issues like these will eventually be at the forefront of the discussion on genetic modification. That is why the discovery of CRISPR and its uses have challenged me; I want to help make decisions regarding the ethics and equality of genetic
modification. Someday, I hope to be a lawmaker and I will use my position to ensure that CRISPR is used ethically and responsibly. If a millionaire can afford to escape the human curse that dying of old age, then so should even the poorest of people.