Pros And Cons Of Human Genetic Engineering

Genetic Engineering: Saving Lives or Designer Babies? The human body is not perfect, however genetic engineering has the potential to make this happen. Most bodies are built with flaws and others fail over time. Science has the ability to change the way that humans are made and alter the flaws that are known. This can be done through the process of human genetic engineering, which is discussed in the articles 5 Standout Pros and Cons of Human Genetic Engineering by David King and Pros and Cons of Genetic Engineering in Humans by Paul Arnold. The number of genetic disorders in humans is growing rapidly, but genetic engineering may be the answer to creating healthier people. There are many potential advantages to being able to alter …show more content…
Researchers have confirmed that they had modified the gene responsible for a fatal and deadly blood disorder. The Sun Yat-sen University team used a gene editing technique known as CRISPR, which “hacks away at the part of their genetic code which results in dismembering the virus” (King, 1). The gene that is cut away is replaced or repaired by another molecule. This technique has been used in animal cells, but has never been tried on humans. This creation of genetically engineered humans is the first of its kind in the world and is a step towards either a healthy society or “designer humans.” Human engineering is a huge debate and by evaluating the pros and cons of genetic engineering in humans, we can determine if this is a positive thing for the …show more content…
One of the ethical concerns is the dilemma of genetic discrimination against those who are genetically unenhanced and those who are not. Genetic engineering may “clear social division between humans who were genetically engineered and those who were not” (Arnold, 1). With genetic engineering, the physical appearance and capabilities of children may be altered and improved. The cost of genetically altering one’s child will assuredly be expensive. If only a certain amount of people can afford to use the technology, a great deal of society will continue to suffer from genetic disorders and will not have enhanced abilities. Economic background will be a large factor in educational and occupational opportunities exist for an individual. Although we may be advancing towards technology, ethically, we are taking a step backwards. As exciting as genetic engineering may seem to be, there are also ethical and societal consequences in following this scientific