Analytic Entry on Current Events

Science and Technology has reached new heights in today's world. The Human Genome Project chemically decoded the entire human genome sequence through its research. With this amazing discovery came many differing opinions regarding its morality. In 2001, scientists in Oregon genetically engineered the first primate, a monkey named ANDi. This was a major scientific advancement in this field. With this kind of research, scientists are one step closer to being able to genetically engineer human beings. This concept frightens many individuals. Groups have formed attempting to ban this kind of research because of its ethical implications. They claim that altering humans’ genes goes against the true meaning of being human. God put every individual on this Earth for a specific reason, and it is everyone’s duty to live up to that. Manipulating genes entirely goes against this idea, for parents would have the ability to choose the appearance, intelligence, athletic ability, etc. that their child would possess. They would be playing the role of God and this concept troubles many. However, the opposing viewpoints ask that if God had a reason for the qualities all the humans possess, why would he give some of them awful diseases and disorders? Being able to alter their genes so that they live a healthy life only seems beneficial. The individuals who oppose this kind of research would then argue that human beings would turn into consumer products, something that is brought and picked out like a piece of candy. They believe that the only individuals who could afford this type of procedure would be those who are wealthy. The already present gap in society would expand and it would leave no room for alteration. Wealthy individuals would be destined for success, while the poor would not stand a chance. They would be unable to reach success because they do not possess the intelligence that the rich genetically do inside them. Despite the many complaints regarding this research, in 2008 the scientists at Cornell University in New York genetically engineered the first human embryo. Their incredible discovery will make it possible for humans to be genetically engineered in the near future. Previously humans could receive gene manipulation that affects blood and muscles cells for example, but those type of alterations will not get passed on to the next generation. This discovery will enable scientists to implant specific genes in individuals to be passed on to their offspring. Previously, the type of genetic engineering that was popular was called “gene doping.” In this process, athletes were able to get genes implanted in them from animals such as a rats’ quick twitch muscles to improve their overall speed. The morality of this is questioned as well because this would eliminate the notion that hard work brings success. As one researcher states, “it would produce excellence without effort, challenging the spirit of the Olympics and the meaning of sports competition” (Gregory M. Lamb. "Genetic Enhancement of Athletes Might Harm Sports”). Although this would benefit the athlete in his or her life, the genes would not be able to be passed on to their children because the genes would have been implanted in the athlete’s muscle cells. The incredible discovery in 2008 is going to make genetic engineering something that will last more than just one generation. The discoveries that scientists have made regarding the Human Genome Project are unbelievable without a doubt. They have reached new limits that no one thought was possible. However, this new limit is troubling to many, thus sides are being taken. The question becomes: is it more important to advance in the science field, or stay true to our morals?