Genetic Engineering
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Genetic Engineering, an Ethical Dilemma
Genetic Engineering, an Ethical Dilemma
Grand Canyon University
NRS 437V
November 13, 2011
Genetic Engineering, an Ethical Dilemma
Introduction
The formal definition of genetic engineering according to Merriam-Webster dictionary is “the directed alteration of genetic material by intervention in genetic processes”. In other words, it is a scientific alteration of the genetic structure in a living organism. There are many different methods in genetic engineering, but the ultimate goal of any of the methods is to manipulate the genetic material in a living organism in other to change its hereditary traits or to produce a certain quality. In a recent news cast segment, it was stated that scientists were closer to put in practice the use of genetic engineering as an alternative method for sex selection. It is quite probable that soon parents will be able to use genetic engineering such as Preimplantation genetic diagnosis of PGD to choose their baby’s gender.
Ethical Theory/Principle
Procreative autonomy “is the liberty to decide when and how to have children according to what parents’ judge is best. Many parents may feel if the technology exists, then they should have the procreative right to choose the gender of their child to create the type of family they want to have. What this particular argument fails to address is that procreative autonomy concerns an individual’s control of their role in procreation and allows them to exercise their individual liberty. It should not explicitly grant them the liberty to intervene with the natural formation of a child because that would interfere with the child’s individual liberty and autonomy. Another dilemma facing the practice of genetic engineering might the fear that we are playing God without knowing future outcome. Secondly, for more practical purposes, when this genetically engineered child is born is he or she likely to a genetic composite which...
Genetic Engineering, an Ethical Dilemma
Grand Canyon University
NRS 437V
November 13, 2011
Genetic Engineering, an Ethical Dilemma
Introduction
The formal definition of genetic engineering according to Merriam-Webster dictionary is “the directed alteration of genetic material by intervention in genetic processes”. In other words, it is a scientific alteration of the genetic structure in a living organism. There are many different methods in genetic engineering, but the ultimate goal of any of the methods is to manipulate the genetic material in a living organism in other to change its hereditary traits or to produce a certain quality. In a recent news cast segment, it was stated that scientists were closer to put in practice the use of genetic engineering as an alternative method for sex selection. It is quite probable that soon parents will be able to use genetic engineering such as Preimplantation genetic diagnosis of PGD to choose their baby’s gender.
Ethical Theory/Principle
Procreative autonomy “is the liberty to decide when and how to have children according to what parents’ judge is best. Many parents may feel if the technology exists, then they should have the procreative right to choose the gender of their child to create the type of family they want to have. What this particular argument fails to address is that procreative autonomy concerns an individual’s control of their role in procreation and allows them to exercise their individual liberty. It should not explicitly grant them the liberty to intervene with the natural formation of a child because that would interfere with the child’s individual liberty and autonomy. Another dilemma facing the practice of genetic engineering might the fear that we are playing God without knowing future outcome. Secondly, for more practical purposes, when this genetically engineered child is born is he or she likely to a genetic composite which...