Genetic Engineering Depicted In The Film 'Gattaca'

Gattaca is a film about conquering the human gene via genetic manipulation and how this technology cannot eradicate the problems of human nature. This assumes that to manipulate human genetics is justifiable and that human nature is a flaw. This film is about human nature triumphing over a society in which perfect DNA is the only measure of success. There are many examples of scientific advances in Gattaca. The main advance is genetic engineering and the ability to extract potential diseases of ‘faults’ from a person’s DNA, and the ability to conduct DNA testing within seconds rather than the weeks that it currently takes. Other advances include using solar power as the main energy source, electric cars and regular, frequent space travel. Science has been able to eliminate physical imperfections but even the strict and harsh environment of Gattaca cannot remove or limit human …show more content…
In the film Gattaca (1997), the citizens struggle with genetic stratification, wherein one group is dominant and privileged based on the genetics that they are born with, and the naturally-born group without modified genetics, as such a citizen as Vincent. Unlike most citizens in Gattaca, Vincent was not born with the genetic engineering that his brother Anton had, and thus he fell behind in terms of becoming part of the more privileged social class, which is essentially determined by one’s DNA. Vincent and Anton’s parents originally wanted Anton to be born without any genetic modification, but the doctor insisted upon it, because he wanted what was best for him. In the film, those who are genetically disadvantaged are discriminated and looked down upon. Despite having the brain capacity, drive, and knowledge for going into space, Vincent still lacked strength, stamina, and poise that was required to become part of the space