Editing Human Genes

[Ramone45]

It is unethical to create a human embryo for the sole purpose of experimentation. This experiment has been limited to the genetic defect for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. I understand the potential benefits of this research. But these benefits may come at too high an ethical cost. Aside from any hypothetical benefits, it is an absolute certainty that this technology will be abused to select for many other desirable traits.
I understand the desire to reproduce, but I don't understand why some may have to accept that they can't or shouldn't. I certainly favor genetic counseling. Adoption is a clear option for those who may transmit genetic defects.

 

[ericahope]

It is unethical to create a human embryo for the sole purpose of experimentation. This experiment has been limited to the genetic defect for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. I understand the potential benefits of this research. But these benefits may come at too high an ethical cost. Aside from any hypothetical benefits, it is an absolute certainty that this technology will be abused to select for many other desirable traits.

Thanks for taking ethics into consideration when discussing this issue. Far too many people take the attitude that if something is technologically possible than it is "anti-science" to oppose doing it. At this point, I don't know what the right answer is, but ethical considerations have to play a part. We can't simply allow scientists to go down this road without first stopping to think about the ethics.

Erica

 

[Ramone45]

Thanks for taking ethics into consideration when discussing this issue. Far too many people take the attitude that if something is technologically possible than it is "anti-science" to oppose doing it. At this point, I don't know what the right answer is, but ethical considerations have to play a part. We can't simply allow scientists to go down this road without first stopping to think about the ethics.

Erica

I was surprised how there was no mention of the ethics of this research in the NPR story, specifically with respect to the creation of an embryo for the purpose of experimentation. They did talk about the ethics of what would absolutely, certainly would happen as a result of this research; namely, selecting for desirable traits.

 

[sr71plt]

I'm still in shock on Ramone45 pretending to have ethics.