Could genetically enhanced super-beings end our way of life?
By Lane Jennings
he study
of genetics has advanced dramatically in recent years, thanks to government-funded
research to map the human genome, combined with market-driven research to develop
medicines and treatments based on knowledge of how specific genes affect health.... As a
result, we already have synthetic hormones and other drugs produced by genetically
modified life-forms, and are close to making genetic modifications in humans an accepted
option for fighting disease, correcting or preventing birth defects, and speeding recovery
after serious injuries.
While most government and medical authorities strongly oppose the cloning of humans, it
is far less clear how scientists, legislators, and the general public regard an even more
pressing genetic issue: using our genetic knowledge to actually enhance human capabilities
rather than just heal and restore.
***
The ethics of enhancement is further complicated by another issue: fairness. If
gene-manipulation or treatment with GM drugs can boost intelligence, physical strength,
coordination, and even intangible traits like charm and sex appeal, then whoever receives
these treatments will gain a strong advantage over ordinary people. Assuming the
treatments are expensive, this could dramatically--and visibly--widen the gap between rich
and poor. In the case of germline enhancements (treatments that affect the reproductive
genes, enabling individuals to pass enhanced traits directly to their children), such
wealth-based superiority could become hereditary.
***
The goal of fairness is certainly important, but not even the phrase "created
equal" in the U.S. Declaration of Independence is meant to imply that every
individual has--or ought to have--identical traits and abilities. Equality before the law
involves making sure that individuals assume appropriate responsibility for all their
actions, but it does not necessarily limit what actions they are capable of taking.
Fear of a "genetic aristocracy" of the wealthy is based on several
questionable assumptions. One is that all wealthy people think and act alike. Instead,
experience shows that rich people use their money in many different ways. Some buy
needless luxuries for themselves, but others spend large amounts on projects that benefit
others.
It seems only reasonable to suppose that some individuals rich enough to afford genetic
enhancements for themselves and their children would establish foundations or find other
methods to make enhancement available to people who could not otherwise afford such
treatments. While this would not eliminate the "genocracy," it could expand its
membership to assure representatives from every ethnic and cultural group on earth.
***
Even the "Alphas" in Aldous Huxley's satirical novel Brave New World
possessed the ability to govern well. Why assume that enhanced abilities may not include
enhanced wisdom, compassion, common sense, and friendliness toward others?
. . .
