Anglia Ruskin University Cambridge and Chelmsford Public Health Genetics Paper
ANSWER
A. Do you believe that genetic enhancements should be legal? Why or why not? Explain in detail. (175 words)
The legality of genetic enhancements is a complex and contentious issue that requires careful consideration of ethical, social, and scientific factors. I believe that genetic enhancements should be legal but within a well-regulated framework.
Firstly, prohibiting genetic enhancements outright would be impractical and likely lead to underground, unregulated procedures, which could result in unsafe practices and exacerbate social disparities. Legalization, on the other hand, allows for oversight and regulation, ensuring that advancements are made safely and ethically.
However, strict guidelines and ethical principles must govern genetic enhancements. There should be robust oversight to prevent abuses, such as using genetic modifications for non-medical purposes or creating genetic inequalities. Additionally, access to these enhancements should be equitable to avoid deepening societal divisions.
Ultimately, genetic enhancements can offer promising medical solutions, such as curing genetic diseases or enhancing cognitive abilities, but they also carry risks and ethical concerns. Therefore, the key lies in striking a balance between allowing scientific progress while safeguarding against potential harm through responsible regulation.
B. Give a detailed example of a genetic enhancement that you believe has benefits to humans? Explain in detail why it is beneficial. (200 words)
One promising genetic enhancement with clear benefits to humans is the development of gene therapies to treat genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis is a life-threatening genetic disorder that affects the respiratory and digestive systems, causing severe lung and digestive problems.
Gene therapy in this context involves introducing a functional copy of the defective gene responsible for cystic fibrosis into the patient’s cells. This enhancement has several significant benefits. Firstly, it offers the potential for a permanent cure, addressing the root cause of the disease rather than merely managing symptoms. This can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with cystic fibrosis, allowing them to lead healthier, more productive lives.
Secondly, gene therapy can reduce the burden on healthcare systems by decreasing the need for frequent hospitalizations and long-term treatments. This, in turn, can result in substantial cost savings.
Moreover, successful gene therapies for genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis can serve as a template for addressing other genetic disorders, potentially revolutionizing the way we treat a wide range of debilitating conditions. Therefore, genetic enhancements in the form of gene therapy have the potential to alleviate human suffering and improve overall public health.
C. Give a detailed example of a genetic enhancement that you believe is detrimental to humans? Explain in detail why it is detrimental. (175 words)
One example of a genetic enhancement that could be detrimental to humans is the pursuit of genetic modifications to enhance physical appearance, particularly in the absence of any medical necessity. This concept raises several ethical and societal concerns.
The quest for physical enhancement through genetic modification could contribute to unrealistic beauty standards and promote unhealthy body image expectations. It may exacerbate societal pressures to conform to specific ideals of attractiveness, potentially leading to increased rates of body dysmorphic disorders, anxiety, and depression.
Furthermore, genetic enhancements for cosmetic purposes could create socioeconomic disparities. Access to such enhancements may be limited to those who can afford them, deepening the divide between the privileged few who can afford genetic enhancements and those who cannot. This could result in an unfair advantage in various aspects of life, including employment opportunities and social status.
Additionally, the long-term consequences of cosmetic genetic enhancements are not fully understood, and unforeseen side effects could emerge. It’s essential to prioritize ethical considerations and potential harm when evaluating the desirability of such enhancements.
D. What other comments or ideas do you want to offer regarding genetic enhancement with humans? Explain in detail. (200 words)
In the ongoing debate surrounding genetic enhancement in humans, it’s crucial to consider a few key points. First, transparency and informed consent must be at the forefront of any genetic enhancement endeavor. Individuals should have access to comprehensive information about the potential risks and benefits of genetic enhancements, enabling them to make informed decisions about their own bodies.
Moreover, discussions around genetic enhancements should be inclusive and involve diverse perspectives, including those from marginalized communities and ethicists. This ensures that the ethical and societal implications are thoroughly evaluated, and potential biases are addressed.
Additionally, regulations governing genetic enhancements should be adaptable and responsive to advancements in science and technology. The field of genetics is rapidly evolving, and the legal framework must evolve alongside it to remain relevant and effective.
Lastly, a strong emphasis should be placed on international collaboration and ethical standards. Genetic enhancements are not limited by geographical boundaries, and global cooperation can help prevent unethical practices and promote responsible research.
Ultimately, the path forward with genetic enhancements should be guided by ethical principles, scientific rigor, and a commitment to the well-being and autonomy of individuals while addressing the broader societal implications.
QUESTION
Description
Genetics
1. Watch the 2 videos
Video #1 – Improving Genetics
https://youtu.be/vr5n_ZOZ6E8Links to an external site.
Video #2 – Genetic Enhancing
https://youtu.be/N-48RVaqZckLinks to an external site.
2. Reply to my post, and answer the four questions (ABCD);3. Write each question before answering the question.
(write more than you think you need, more more more!)
A. Do you believe that genetic enhancements should be legal? Why or why not? Explain in detail. 175 words
B. Give a detailed example of a genetic enhancement that you believe has benefits to humans? Explain in detail why it is beneficial. 200 words
C. Give a detailed example of a genetic enhancement that you believe is detrimental to humans? Explain in detail why it is detrimental. 175 words
D. What other comments or ideas do you want to offer regarding genetic enhancement with humans? Explain in detail. This question is not optional. 200 words