Lifeskill Fifteen
Genetic Engineering (S)
Genetic engineering is the human altering of the genetic material of living cells to make them capable of producing new substances or performing new functions. The technique became possible during the 1950s when Francis Crick and James Watson discovered the structure of DNA molecules. Crick, Watson and later researchers learned how these molecules store and transmit genetic information. Genetic engineering includes (but is not limited to) gene splicing, cloning and engineering, treatment of genetic disorders, and agricultural applications.
As with the creation of many new techniques within the scientific community there is a lot of controversy surrounding genetic engineering. Many critics also worry about where genetic engineering might lead. If we can cure genetic disorders, can we also design individuals who are taller, more intelligent, or better looking? Is that a good application of the technology? Will the altered agricultural products be safe for humans, or will they change us in some unknown way? Will the altered bacteria used to create synthetic versions of substances such as insulin create new bacteria that are harmful to humans? Will humans know when to say "enough" to the changes that can be made? These are some of the ethical questions that surround genetic engineering.
Many other applications of genetic engineering have already been developed or are likely to be realized in the future. In every case, however, the glowing promises of each new technique are balanced by the new social, economic, and ethical questions that are being raised.
1) choose one of these genetic engineering technologies: cloning, genetic testing, eugenics, gene therapy or genetically modified foods.
2) write a 1-2 paragraph summary in which you discuss the science behind the genetic technology you chose, and how it is used in society.
3) Create a Pro Vs Con list with at least 7 items for each.
4) Write a 2-3 paragraph paper, using your pros and cons list as a guide, in which you discuss the ethics behind the technology and state if you think that this is an ethical advancement.
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