From genetically modified food to the oncomouse, the issues surrounding the ethics of playing with genes are complicated to say the least. Genetic engineering provides wonderful possibilities like ending world hunger and curing cancer, for instance, along with potentially dangerous consequences and threats to human integrity. What happens to the ecosystem when GM insect-repellent plants are introduced? Is it right to create an animal specifically so it may die by a debilitating disease?The debate hits closer to home with gene therapy and embryo screening. The question is: What’s next?I don’t know about you, but the movie Gattaca scared the crap out of me. Thankfully, my fears may be somewhat assuaged by new legislation that just passed through the US Senate.
Bioethics
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