Biotics
Licayan, Josafat John Simon L. 11139471
BIOTICS August 6, 2013
Gattaca (1997)
In a not-too-distant future where genetic engineering is highly paramount, “natural-born” babies like Vincent Freeman are discriminated in society. Humans (scientists) have found ways to alter the balance of nature. Genetically engineered individuals are considered to have more potential and are more favored in terms of employment and career options (companies determine the positions of applicants by looking at their genetic code). These societal norms have hindered Vincent from fulfilling his dream of becoming an astronaut. He had to steal Jerome Morrow’s identity, a cripple with a perfect human genome, in order to earn his place at Gattaca Corporation, an aerospace company. During his training, Vincent continued to acquire samples of Jerome’s hair, urine, blood and skin to pass through any DNA tests required by the company. These deceptions went smoothly until he accidentally left an eyelash at the scene where his director was murdered.
Anton, the younger and genetically enhanced brother of Vincent, was assigned to head the investigation of the said murder case. He has a long history with his elder brother – beginning with Vincent being inferior to his taller, stronger and perfect younger brother. As young siblings, they enjoyed holding swimming competitions against each other where Anton always ends up winning. A time came when Anton drowned unexpectedly and Vincent, instead of continuing on the race, went back to save his brother. Since then, Vincent gained hope on pursuing his dream. However, his brother suffered a blow to his ego, affecting his judgment in the investigation.
Gattaca touched on several ethical issues concerning the manipulation of genes. In the movie, it was explicitly shown that genetic engineering was morally accepted by society. However, relating it to real time, numerous groups have questioned whether these processes are
BIOTICS August 6, 2013
Gattaca (1997)
In a not-too-distant future where genetic engineering is highly paramount, “natural-born” babies like Vincent Freeman are discriminated in society. Humans (scientists) have found ways to alter the balance of nature. Genetically engineered individuals are considered to have more potential and are more favored in terms of employment and career options (companies determine the positions of applicants by looking at their genetic code). These societal norms have hindered Vincent from fulfilling his dream of becoming an astronaut. He had to steal Jerome Morrow’s identity, a cripple with a perfect human genome, in order to earn his place at Gattaca Corporation, an aerospace company. During his training, Vincent continued to acquire samples of Jerome’s hair, urine, blood and skin to pass through any DNA tests required by the company. These deceptions went smoothly until he accidentally left an eyelash at the scene where his director was murdered.
Anton, the younger and genetically enhanced brother of Vincent, was assigned to head the investigation of the said murder case. He has a long history with his elder brother – beginning with Vincent being inferior to his taller, stronger and perfect younger brother. As young siblings, they enjoyed holding swimming competitions against each other where Anton always ends up winning. A time came when Anton drowned unexpectedly and Vincent, instead of continuing on the race, went back to save his brother. Since then, Vincent gained hope on pursuing his dream. However, his brother suffered a blow to his ego, affecting his judgment in the investigation.
Gattaca touched on several ethical issues concerning the manipulation of genes. In the movie, it was explicitly shown that genetic engineering was morally accepted by society. However, relating it to real time, numerous groups have questioned whether these processes are