The Ethical Issue Of Genetic Modification Essay - 934 Words

Genetic modification is a scientific advancement with lots of possibilities. The most compelling argument for genetic engineering is to improve the health of society. Simple genetic mutations can easily affect one’s health. If there are effective and efficient methods to cure this, shouldn’t we do so? Or should we object to this? On what grounds? When it is, after all, the logical next step to medical advancement. It has the potential to save thousands of people from diseased lives and early death. Objections are often based on the fact that it is â€Å"unnatural† or the fear of the unknown. But so are IVF and organ transplants. It is difficult to predict with a definite certainty of what will occur in the future as a result of the actions of the present. But when has that ever stopped us? Shouldn’t we have the right to eliminate genetic diseases and push human capabilities through genetic engineering? But at what point should we draw a line on genetic mod ification? That is the main ethical issue of the debate. The fear, as always, is that we may eventually go too far. Such as creating the dreaded â€Å"designer babies† whose appearance, IQ, and abilities will be customized to the parents’ arbitrary desire (Pinker). Ultimately, genetic modification will limit the children’s freedom to shape their own destiny. The increasing societal control over the characteristics of humans while failing to value other traits over others could possibly increase the intolerance of diversity. ForShow MoreRelatedRecent Developments In Gene Editing, Concerning The Modification1447 Words   |  6 PagesRecent developments in gene editing, concerning the modification of embryonic cells and its’ usefulness since the discovery of iPS cells Abstract This essay addresses the question â€Å"In light of the recent developments with iPS cells, is the genetic modification of human embryos justified?†. New gene editing software CRISPR has created cheaper and more accurate modification, making the editing of an embryo a possibility. There are concerns about this advancementRead MoreBiological Basis. There Are Few Topics That Are More Controversial1260 Words   |  6 Pagesproduction of genetically modified plants for human consumption. Genetically modified plants are created through transgenic processes that rely on recombinant DNA technology. This is a process in which farmers and crop growers are able to incorporate genetic material that would not normally be innate to the composition of the plant. There are several reasons that this represents a valuable process for farmers. A crop could be made to be grow more resistant to bad weather, destructive illnesses, or bugsRead MoreEssay about Applications of Gene Modification869 W ords   |  4 Pagestopics and hot button issues. New breakthroughs in science and technology can leave people upset and not ready for change. One of the most prevalent examples of a controversial science is genetic engineering. The modification of genes is becoming a popular application in science, but some people aren’t ready. Genetic engineering will play a big part in the scientific world in the next few years. Most people don’t think this is a good thing, but the use of genetic modification can increase the worldsRead MoreThe Issues Of Gene Technology867 Words   |  4 PagesIssues of gene technology include inappropriate applications, religious issues, and what gives us the right to use such technology. The problems on society include disagreements among different groups of people based on views and opinions. There can economic problems when dealing with genetically modified foods. Legislation mainly focuses on HIPAA and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimina tion Act (GINA). 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As humans, we never have enough, we always are in search of self-improvement and personal gain. Our lives are based on the pursuit of personal gain and to help better the human race as a whole. Sometimes we must sacrifice everything and other times it comes as little to no price to achieve something greater for ourselves and others. Genetic engineering isRead MoreGenetic Modification929 Words   |  4 PagesBy using genetic modification and gene editing to alter human embryos, scientists may prevent certain birth defects and diseases in an ethical fashion. Genetic modification is second to none when preventing inherited genetic diseases. One commonly used method is to use preimplantation genetic diagnosis, or PGD. According to Sarah Ly, â€Å"preimplantation genetic diagnosis allows viable embryos to be screened for various genetic traits, such as sex-linked diseases, before implanting them in the mother†Read MoreGenetic Engineering : Genetically Modified Organisms Essay1293 Words   |  6 Pagesmeaning that their genetic materials have been modified. This modification is achieved through a technological method, genetic engineering. Genetic engineering also known as recombinant DNA technology/genetic modification is a science that employs molecular biology techniques so as to modify or alter the genome of an organism. It involves manipulation of an organism’s genome directly by use of biotechnology. Typically, deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), which is an exogenous genetic material, is insertedRead MoreShould Humans Have The Power?955 Words   |  4 Pagesa person and see their genetic makeup or rather their â€Å"identity.† This information in hand, scientists can find genes for specific traits or abnormalities. However, with this technology, there are ethical problems that are associated with it. Should humans have the power to select what genes an offspring should have and if so what specific genes can they alter? Should humans have the power to â€Å"play God?† These questions indeed are difficult to answer. Regardless, this issue must be addressed forRead MoreWhat Makes Us Human Genome? Essay1427 Words   |  6 Pagesexcitement (or disdain) for the upcoming human genetics revolution, one needs only check google search trends for words like ‘genetic enhancement’ or ‘designer baby.’ Interest peaks around 2003, the year of the human genome project’s conclusion (figure 1). Today, many are not interested in current genetic events. Despite the public†™s dwindling interest in the human genome, the scientific community a been working along with increasing fervor. Modern genetics-related headlines will likely be found arguing