Should Parents Be Allowed to ‘Genetically Engineer’ Perfect Children?

Genetic engineering is a rapidly evolving field, raising a plethora of ethical and practical concerns. One of the most controversial topics is whether parents should be able to choose the traits of their genetically engineered children. While the idea of having a "perfect" child is tempting, it carries significant risks and implications.

Enhancing Future Generations

Imagine a future where parents can select their child's physical traits, such as eye color, hair texture, and even intelligence. Genetic manipulation could theoretically allow parents to create a child with specific characteristics. However, such a future is fraught with ethical and societal challenges. For instance, a future where women are born with long straight hair, blonde hair, and blue eyes, purely through genetic manipulation, might be a stark reminder of the potential misuse of this technology.

Economic and Social Fairness

There are several issues that arise when considering genetic engineering. One significant concern is economic disparity. If genetic engineering is possible, it is likely to be extremely expensive, rendering it accessible only to the rich. This creates a widening gap between socioeconomic classes, not only in terms of financial resources but also in terms of capabilities. Success and IQ are strongly linked, and intelligence is highly heritable. Even minor genetic differences can magnify the naturally existing disparities between classes, leading to a more pronounced divide.

The problem of "perfect" is another critical aspect. What defines a perfect child? There is no universal consensus on what traits make for an ideal individual. Should a child be engineered to be agreeable, even if it means they are less successful in certain professional or social settings? There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Additionally, certain personality traits, like agreeability, are often associated with lower pay. Does this mean that the world should strive to eliminate such traits?

The Role of Genetic Diversity

Genetic diversity is crucial for the resilience of a species. The more varied the genetic makeup of a population, the better it can adapt to future environmental challenges, including diseases. If genetic engineering is applied without preserving diversity, the population may become more susceptible to future threats. This could potentially make us a less resilient species in the long run. While genetic screening and engineering to treat disease and disability are generally accepted, the wholesale application of genetic manipulation without safeguards could have unforeseen consequences.

Conclusion: Cautious Support for Genetic Screening and Engineering

In light of these concerns, I fully support the use of genetic screening and engineering to diagnose and treat disease and disability. However, beyond that, I am cautious about the broader application of genetic manipulation. We must proceed with extreme caution and careful regulation to ensure that the benefits of genetic engineering do not come at the cost of ethical and societal harm.