Persuasive Essay About Genetically Altering Children

Genetically altered humans are much more of a reality than anyone may realize. Currently, fertility doctors around the country conduct successful experiments in which they manipulate the human germ line. In the very near future, doctors may become capable of preventing many children’s diseases, such as cancer and other genetic disorders and diseases. Those who oppose genetically altering humans, say it goes against ethics; that children will start appearing to their parents as simply a consumer good. Some say that by playing with genetics, scientists and doctors are simply attempting to “play God.” Still others maintain that genetic engineering could create new class divisions - those who are “superior” because their genes have been altered and those who have not been altered. Whether genetically altering children, before they are even born, is right or wrong. It is very near and a very real possibility. …show more content…
Masci discusses how in the early years of in vitro fertilization, many feared this new technology in the same way that people disagree with genetic alterations today. As an in vitro baby myself, I can personally reveal that I am not treated a “good or commodity”. On the contrary, I believe that the difficult struggle to conceive has only increased my parents’ gratefulness for me. Prior to reading this article, I held to the belief that genetic alteration was ethically wrong, but after reading Masci’s article, I began to reconsider my initial opinion that “all” genetic alteration is wrong. Although I do maintain that in vitro fertilization should be a viable option for infertile couples, I do not agree with those who intend to use this cutting-edge technology to simply make their children prettier or smarter. Masci clearly shows both sides of the argument, making certain that the reader can build their own