The Genetic Research Debate

Paper Summary:

This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of genetic research in the United States. It discusses the debate over the morality and ethics involved in genetic research and presents both sides of the argument. The paper specifically focuses on the benefits of genetic research and concludes that science should be free to pursue genetic research, which could have enormous benefits to humanity.

From the Paper:

"Genetic research shows promise in other areas, as well. Genetic testing is a new form of medicine that uses genetics to look for defects and propensity for certain diseases even before a baby is born. If the baby is found to suffer from some kind of terminal illness or disease, the baby can be aborted before it is born, alleviating needless suffering in both child and parent. In addition, these genetic tests can tell if a person shares harmful genes that could lead to diseases such as cancer, and in some cases, early diagnoses of these diseases can lead to early treatment and a much better chance of recovery. There are also tests available that a person can send to a lab for analysis, but most doctors do not believe these tests are in the patient's best interest, because they could get the results, jump to the wrong conclusions, and make poor or even harmful decisions. A doctor notes, "[M]edical geneticists and genetic counselors must be available both to advise patients and to educate other health professionals about the value and interpretation of genetic tests" (Kahn). Genetic testing can make a difference in the lives of many people, and it can help diagnose diseases today that may be treatable tomorrow. Genetic testing is just another example of why genetic research is vital to this country and the world, and why science should be free to perform genetic research at all levels of scientific discovery."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Editors. "Health Issues in Genetics." Genome.gov. Nov. 2007. 24 March 2008.
• Editors. "Policy & Ethics." Genome.gov. 2008. 24 March 2008. <http://www.genome.gov/PolicyEthics/>
• Editors. "Medical Ethics or a Culture of Death?" SpeakOut.com. 2000. 24 March 2008. <http://speakout.com/activism/news/2787-1.html>
• Kahn, Jeffrey P. "Through the Looking Glass: Making Sense of Genetic Tests." CNN.com. 2000. 24 March 2008. <http://www.cnn.com/HEALTH/bioethics/9809/genetics.part4/template.html>

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