Why Is Gene Editing Bad

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be able to choose your own characteristics, or even get rid of unwanted ones? Although at first, this may seem like the main idea of a cliche science fiction novel, it is, in fact, a current controversy known as gene editing. Gene editing is a widespread possibility for the future. The hope is that one day scientists will be capable of changing the genes in human embryos to remove dangerous inherited diseases. Despite the clearly positive results of healthier children, people are split on whether or not it’s actually beneficial. Some argue that it’s unsafe and that we don’t know if it has negative effects that could end up doing more harm than good. On the other side, some believe that if we

In the article “Despite moral objections, panel gives cautious approval to gene editing research” by Eva Botkin- Kowack, it says, “There are thousands of genetic diseases- gene editing could be a huge help for these people and deserves some consideration.” This is true because we will greatly improve the lives of many by allowing them to rid themselves and their children the burden of having, or even carrying, a genetic disease. In the text, it also states it can “treat a range of diseases such a sickle cell, hemophilia, to even lowering risks of certain cancers.” This shows us more specifically some of the viruses that could be gone just by genetic editing. We have access to curing diseases, which is too great of an opportunity to pass up. If society can save lives, why shouldn’t

In the article written by Eva Botkin-Kowacki, she states “fears have persisted that such technology could lead to a dystopian society in which people with the means could pay to alter the traits of their offspring to give them an advantage in life, or governments might use the technique to build super-soldiers.” What this means to them is that it could get out of hand. Those who say this are short-sighted. If we set strict regulations and guidelines now to ensure that gene editing remains only for getting rid of diseases, there is no concern for superhumans whatsoever. This idea is shown by Project Syndicate when it says “The sick should not be left untreated just because of fears that some parents will want to build superkids.” Besides, this situation presented by those anti-gene editing is merely hypothetical, not fact-based by any