| A Paper on the Future of |
| The Regulation of Genetic Testing |
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The scientific field of genetics has raised much controversy over the years. The recent breakthrough of cloning sheep is just one example of what the power of genetics can do. Now, philosophers and scientists are wondering if DNA, the essence of human life, should be toyed with. Genetics can be beneficial to mankind, but there are, indeed, some distinct disadvantages that need be addressed.
Both sides of this debate, those who wish to advance genetics and those who do not, have voiced their distinctive opinions in recent books and articles. Advocates of genetics argue that this new science will and can benefit mankind, not harm it. For instance, genetic diseases like Down's syndrome, cystic fibrosis, sickle-cell anemia, Tay Sach's disease, and hemophilia can be cured or prevented someday in the future (McGee). From a geneticist's view, the possibility of a world without diseases is very enticing, and it is only attainable if genetic reseach is increased. Those who are against modern genetics fear that its power will be misused. For example, superhumans or biological weapons could be created for destructive purposes, unnecessary experiments requiring live animals or humans would be nonethical, or the world could overpopulate because of the absence of disease (Genetics). It would appear that the ability to manipulate the biological properties of life is simply too powerful for mankind to control. Any powerful new technology needs to be properly managed or else terrible consequences could occur. If both sides of this issue realize that genetics can indeed benefit mankind through positive and progressive reseach, then we are a step closer in resolving the conflicts that hinder genetic tests. Genetic tests, however, must be regulated by the government or by medical authorities. Scientists, as human beings, must abide by moral values and do what is right for society. In addition, the public must be educated about new breakthroughs and consequences of modern genetics, for many people are wary of new and different ideas. Many people fear genetics because they believe that toying with the basis of life would be like playing the role of God. The DNA in every single living thing on our planet is a program that determines what we become--do we have a right to alter this program? Does man have the right to manipulate genes, clone sheep, or create new lifeforms? (Genetics) The problem with genetics is that it raises many, many questions. People are worried and afraid of what this new medical field could do. What needs to be done is that the public must be educated about the possible benefits of genetic testing so anxiety is reduced. Ethical and moral questions are often asked, and they must be resolved quickly. Regulations and boundaries must be created to ensure that genetic testing does not go astray into detrimental realms. It appears that there are always advantages and disadvantages to any scientific discovery. For example, when atomic energy was first discovered, it was learned that it had beneficial purposes such as providing electricity to homes. But it was also learned that atomic energy could be applied to weapons of war. In analogy, we must not let history repeat itself by misusing the power of genetics to create superhumans or biological weapons. The ethical questions of genetics must be analyzed now, and only then can genetic testing be managed in a way to benefit the world. Science has always benefited our society more than it has hindered it. Genetics is just another tool that can help reduce the anguish and suffering caused by genetic diseases. Through proper management and guidance, the field of genetics can deliver mankind into a happier world, a world without disease, and a world where everyone is born with the chance to live a normal life. |
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