Research Considerations: The Ethical Rationale For Asking A

Q1based On Research Consider The Ethical Rationale For And Against Usi

Based on research, consider the ethical rationale for and against using genetic technologies to perfect human beings. Which aligns best with your own moral compass? What is your role as a STEM professional in ensuring the ethical use of these technologies?

Paper For Above instruction

The ethical debate surrounding the use of genetic technologies to perfect human beings is complex and multifaceted. Proponents argue that such technologies can eliminate hereditary diseases, eradicate genetic disorders, and enhance human capabilities, thereby improving overall quality of life. They posit that humans have the moral obligation to utilize scientific advancements for the betterment of society, promoting health, longevity, and even cognitive or physical enhancements. From a utilitarian perspective, the potential benefits outweigh the risks, especially if ethical guidelines are strictly followed. For example, genetic editing techniques like CRISPR-Cas9 allow for precise modifications to the genome, which could prevent suffering caused by genetic conditions such as cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease (Doudna & Charpentier, 2014). This utilitarian view emphasizes the moral duty to reduce suffering and increase happiness, aligning with a consequentialist ethic that supports genetic enhancements.

Conversely, many argue against using genetic technologies for human enhancement due to ethical, social, and philosophical concerns. Critics worry about unintended consequences, such as off-target effects or unforeseen genetic mutations that could introduce new health problems. Additionally, there are fears that such technologies could lead to 'designer babies,' exacerbating social inequalities, creating a genetically stratified society where access to enhancements is limited to the wealthy. This scenario raises issues of justice, fairness, and social cohesion (Savulescu, 2015). Moreover, some ethical frameworks, such as deontology, emphasize respecting human dignity and the intrinsic value of individuals, cautioning against manipulating human nature at a fundamental level. Altering the human genome might diminish what it means to be human or violate moral principles about accepting human limitations and diversity.

From a personal perspective rooted in my moral compass, I align more closely with a cautious approach that emphasizes stringent ethical guidelines, informed consent, and equitable access. While the potential benefits are promising, the risks and ethical concerns necessitate careful regulation and oversight. As a STEM professional, my role involves advocating for responsible research practices, ensuring transparency, and engaging in public discourse about the ethical implications. It is crucial to collaborate with ethicists, policymakers, and the community to develop frameworks that prevent misuse and address societal impacts. Scientific innovation should serve humanity without compromising moral values or creating new forms of inequality.

In conclusion, the debate over genetic technologies to enhance humans underscores the importance of balancing scientific progress with ethical responsibility. While the allure of perfecting human beings offers significant benefits, without rigorous ethical considerations, it risks harm and social division. As professionals in STEM fields, it is our duty to promote ethical research and advocate for principles that protect human dignity and social justice, ensuring that technological advancements serve the common good.

References

  • Doudna, J. A., & Charpentier, E. (2014). The new frontier of genome engineering with CRISPR-Cas9. Science, 346(6213), 1258096. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1258096
  • Savulescu, J. (2015). Ethics of human enhancement: mechanistic and moral perspectives. Philosophy & Technology, 28(3), 271-289.
  • Lanphier, E., Urnov, F., Hae Coldren, R., et al. (2015). Don’t edit the human germ line. Nature, 519(7544), 413–415. https://doi.org/10.1038/519413a
  • Erik Parens & Josephine Johnston (2015). The ethics of enhancement and genetic engineering. Annual Review of Genomics and Human Genetics, 16, 91-108.
  • Holt, R. J. (2018). Gene editing, ethics, and governance. Nature Reviews Genetics, 19(2), 81-82.
  • Iltis, A. S., & Finkler, S. (2021). Ethical issues in gene editing. Genetics in Medicine, 23, 246-251.
  • Nuffield Council on Bioethics. (2018). Genome editing and human reproduction: social and ethical issues. London, UK: Nuffield Council on Bioethics.
  • Cohen, J. (2019). CRISPR and human embryos: What physicians need to know. The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 129(4), 1210–1212.
  • Morley, K. I., & Robertson, J. (2013). Ethical issues in genome editing. Bioethics, 27(7), 378-385.
  • Hodge, J. G., & Tutton, R. (2017). The social implications of human germline gene editing. Bioethics, 31(3), 192-199.

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