Detect and correct flaws of DNA?

Question

Research is being conducted on the Human Genome and in Genetic Engineering, it might soon be possible to create a "made to order" baby or detect and correct flaws in DNA of adults. What problems or benefits do you see in these possibilities?

What do you think?

I don't believe that would be right. People with disabilities and disorders have an impact on other people, we wouldnt all want to be the same.

Answer 1

Research in this area offers a huge opportunity to increase the quality of life by eliminating genetic disorders and diseases such certain cancers in certain individuals.

Although I respect your views, your comment:
"People with disabilities and disorders have an impact on other people, we wouldnt all want to be the same."
is not valid claim as focus is not to make people genetically the same but to reduce genetic disorders increasing the quality of life for these individuals.

Hope that helps. :)

Answer 2

I think it's inevitable. I see very few moral/ethical problems with disabilities and major genetic illnesses. Forcing parent's children to have an illness when you have the power to stop that is far more wrong than any diversity we get about that. As for the future...with IQ, height and those traits...I think it's inevitable. But hopefully we'll be mature enough to make good decisions; I don't see every parent wanting to determine all the details of their children. Diversity will be preserved.

Also, genetically screened babies already come from IVF embryo selection; genetic engineering isn't necessary. IVF embryos are already screened for major diseases, particularly hereditary markers that the parents are known to have. The other thing they're screened for is sex :) - an interest statistic is that in North America, the majority have been choosing girls.

Answer 3

Another problem is that we can't always see ahead to know what all the ramifications/consequences our manipulations can cause. We can't actually know what we will cause by these actions until it happens.