The thought of eugenics has been around ever since Gregor Mendel first started cross-breeding plants to get the best product. But would it be taken too far if eugenicists were able to manipulate human DNA? The ability to genetically edit humans is desirable (just think about how desirable plastic surgery has become), but it would come with many consequences, some that make the advance seem unnecessary. Let us take a look into similar applications and a few of the flaws of human engineering like: ethical issues, alternatives, gene doping, new mutations and population issues.
Before we begin, we need to address the growing concern internationally. Many countries are already beginning to start processes to ban Genetically Modifying of Humans …show more content…
This could possibly be a baneful treatment. To illustrate this, there was a study completed back in the late 1990's where scientist found a gene in mice that was linked to memory. Editing this specific gene lead to a great increase in learning and memory, but it also caused more sensitivity to pain. This is just one example of sacrifices that will have to be made, if we go through with choosing traits and characteristics for the unborn. Other concerns that have arisen are: the children can't consent, reproductive cells will be affected, modifying all descendants, and if there are some parents who do not agree with GMH will be taking the risk of their children having a disadvantage to others who have been …show more content…
GMH will increase the standard of living, as a result people will live longer and therefore cause more of an overpopulation issue. Not only will there be a lack of resources for everyone, there will also be a new social class division. The “GenRich” and the “Naturals” classes will emerge. The “Genrich” would be the individuals who have been modified. They will have increased chances at earning jobs, money, and respect. While the “Naturals,” or the individuals who did not go through with any modification, will struggle to attain quality positions in society based on their genetic make-up. In the end, this could result in a completely separate species based on knowledge and genetic advances.The “GenRich” would also have DNA even more similar than we all have now, 99.99%. This would allow disease to wipe out the human race more efficiently because our immune systems would not be able to adapt to fight of the illness. As a side effect, GMH would allow “GenRiches” to hold a sense of empowerment, and the “Naturals” would develop a negative self-image because they are not living up to society’s new standards. Children would not be taught that they are unique for a reason, rather they need to be altered to fit standards. Furthermore, government and insurance companies might begin to offer assistance to those who have gone through genetic enhancement processes - Only causing a greater societal gap. The most frightening
Before we begin, we need to address the growing concern internationally. Many countries are already beginning to start processes to ban Genetically Modifying of Humans …show more content…
This could possibly be a baneful treatment. To illustrate this, there was a study completed back in the late 1990's where scientist found a gene in mice that was linked to memory. Editing this specific gene lead to a great increase in learning and memory, but it also caused more sensitivity to pain. This is just one example of sacrifices that will have to be made, if we go through with choosing traits and characteristics for the unborn. Other concerns that have arisen are: the children can't consent, reproductive cells will be affected, modifying all descendants, and if there are some parents who do not agree with GMH will be taking the risk of their children having a disadvantage to others who have been …show more content…
GMH will increase the standard of living, as a result people will live longer and therefore cause more of an overpopulation issue. Not only will there be a lack of resources for everyone, there will also be a new social class division. The “GenRich” and the “Naturals” classes will emerge. The “Genrich” would be the individuals who have been modified. They will have increased chances at earning jobs, money, and respect. While the “Naturals,” or the individuals who did not go through with any modification, will struggle to attain quality positions in society based on their genetic make-up. In the end, this could result in a completely separate species based on knowledge and genetic advances.The “GenRich” would also have DNA even more similar than we all have now, 99.99%. This would allow disease to wipe out the human race more efficiently because our immune systems would not be able to adapt to fight of the illness. As a side effect, GMH would allow “GenRiches” to hold a sense of empowerment, and the “Naturals” would develop a negative self-image because they are not living up to society’s new standards. Children would not be taught that they are unique for a reason, rather they need to be altered to fit standards. Furthermore, government and insurance companies might begin to offer assistance to those who have gone through genetic enhancement processes - Only causing a greater societal gap. The most frightening