Genetic Engineering Essay

Genetic Engineering in Regards to the Law and Social Justice

In a just society, the law protects human rights and promotes social justice. It must both elevate the dignity of each individual, and ensure fairness in those institutions that are instrumental to social opportunity.

Genetic engineering is both a complex yet remarkable term. The way in which Mother Nature and man-made creations can combine to form an altercation to what is intended as natural has become one of the most on-going research fields since 12,000 BC. Today, scientists strive to produce unspeakable results in the field of medical genetic engineering, results that help save lives of living human beings and lives of future populations. However, as life changing as genetic engineering may be, social justice issues have been raised in regards to the ethics and moral behind such extreme medical work. Different theorists have developed principles that help provide a unique perception on genetic engineering, and the law in which we all follow helps give an insight to how these social justice issues are defined.

What is genetic engineering?

In order to map out the role played by the law on genetic engineering, it must be defined what genetic engineering is. Genetic engineering is the intentional manipulation of the characteristics of an organism by controlling the genetic material. Different technologies are used in order to change the genetic make up of cells and move genes across boundaries in order to produce organisms. Genetic engineering will be discussed in a medical perspective, and therefore it is important to establish that terms cloning and genetic engineering have two very individual definitions. Cloning deals with producing exact copies whereas geneti...

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...gineering, both a remarkable yet complex process of nature. What justifies the moral implications that follow such a medical marvel? Through different theories of justice, a discussion on social implications have been identified and addressed. Although the law is quite limited, this allows for more freedom of expression and creation. It allows individuals to make the most of a situation, thus creating more options for the human race and how their present and future DNA can be used and adapted. There Is no right or wrong answer in how genetic engineering should be carried out, it can only be contemplated through the various principles and theories discussed.

“Humans have long since possessed the tools for crafting a better world. Where love, compassion, altruism and justice have failed, genetic manipulation will not succeed.”

-Gina Moranto, Quest for Perfection