Genetic Engineering

Paper Summary:

This paper argues that genetic engineering should be permitted in certain cases. The paper discusses some of the reasons for the resistance to any kind of genetic engineering. The paper then presents a case of a four year old girl who became the first patient to receive gene therapy and describes the resulting improvement in her and her parents' quality of life. The paper uses this case to discuss the potential benefits of using gene therapy.

From the Paper:

"Furthermore, focusing research efforts and publicity on non-life saving genetic modifications, perhaps most damningly, has proved to be a powerful distraction from the real, life-saving potential of innovations in the technology. Because of fears of cloning, or building a super race, research into the abuse of some of the potentially life-sustaining ways genetic engineering can be used has come under question. To end such potential abuses, scientists conducting research into this technology should set voluntary ethical guidelines for themselves. There is certainly a precedent for this within the field of medicine, that of the Hippocratic oath. Scientists dealing with the dangers and the benefits of modifying the genetic code should construct a similar oath for themselves, before the less knowledgeable governing bodies of the nations of the world attempt to do it for them, and limit all genetic engineering research out of fear."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Anders Aberg, "Bridging the Gap between Model Systems and Human Biology." Originally published in Genetic Engineering News. Nov 1 2005. Vol. 25, No. 19. [6 Nov 2006] http://www.genengnews.com/articles/chitem.aspx?aid=878
• Bereano, Phillip L. "Body and Soul: The price of biotech." Seattle Times. 20 Aug 1995: B5.
• Dinham, Philip. "Is genetic engineering good or bad for humanity?" Originally published In Jamaica News Weekly. Health Section. 2005. [6 Nov 2006] <http://www.jamaicans.com/articles/primecomments/geneticengine.shtml>
• Epstein, Ron. "Redesigning the World." Originally published in Primitivism Journal. 2005. [6 Nov 2006] <http://www.primitivism.com/genetic-engineering.>
• Heaf, David. "List of Pros and Cons." Originally published in If Gene Journal. 21 Apr 2001. [6 Nov 2006] <http://www.ifgene.org/proscons.htm>

More papers on Genetic Engineering:

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• Term Paper # 135911 : "Genetic Engineering and Healthcare"
• Analytical Essay # 119193 : "The Pros and Cons of Genetic Engineering"

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