Should genetically modifying babies be legal?

The term “genetic modification” most commonly refers to a technique known as mitochondrial replacement therapy. The treatment involves constructing an embryo from the DNA of three people, using one party’s mitochondrial DNA in place of another, which is at risk for passing on a mitochondrial illness. In recent years, the genetic modification of babies has become a widely debated issue. The first genetically altered babies were born in 2018, prompting the scientific community to debate the ethics of the project. Is this procedure the scientific community's latest achievement, or a step too far?

Yes, genetically modifying babies should be legal

The genetic modification of babies could lead to medical breakthroughs that improve the lives of many people. The treatment carries no more risk than any other form of reproductive assistance and is a potential means of serving the common good.

The procedure would allow people with transferable illnesses to have biological children

Through prohibiting genetic modification of babies, policymakers prevent individuals from experiencing parenthood

The practice could enhance future generations

Refusing to test a procedure that could improve future generations' quality of life is short-sighted.

Genetically modifying babies is a form of reproductive assistance

Scientists accept other forms of reproductive assistance. Why not genetic modification?

No, genetically modifying babies should not be legal

According to most experts, genetic modification of babies carries social and safety risks that make the responsible practice of this procedure impossible.

Genetically modifying babies would create a new caste system

If some members of our society receive genetic enhancements, those who are not genetically enhanced will fall into a lower class.

The practice holds serious safety risks for the mother and baby

Do the potential benefits of this procedure justify risks to the health of mother and baby?

The majority of scientists think that this is a bad idea

We should heed the voices of scientific experts warning against this procedure's possible drawbacks.
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This page was last edited on Tuesday, 28 Apr 2020 at 08:36 UTC