Topic Option #2  – Genetics, Designer Babies, and Eugenics

            The purpose of this assignment is for you to consider the moral hazards associated with genetic engineering and genetic modification.  New genetic technologies appear to be very           promising, and could change the world.  But will they change it for the better?

            Present a moral analysis of the risks of genetic modification, using course concepts.  Explain       your perspective on whether or not such practices are moral, and use moral theories and         principles to support your view.

1. What are the inherent risks involved with genetic modification?
2. How can genetic modification be used to enhance human health, abilities, and quality of life?
3. Why could the creation of “designer babies” be considered wrong? How could this be unjust to individuals and to society?
4. What could be the long term consequences of irresponsible genetic engineering?
5. How can moral theories and principles be used to guide us toward responsible genetic engineering practices?
6. How far is too far? Is it acceptable to create genetically transhuman individuals who have extraordinary abilities?

            Issues for investigation:

            GMOs and GE food                                        “3 parent babies”

            in vitro fertilization and designer babies         CRISPR and genome editing

            procreative beneficence                                              risk of eugenics and social disparity

            creation of genetic chimera                             transhumanism

• What do you see as the major failures of this system? How might one argue that this represents a failure of justice?  What can be done to correct the issues?
• Use ethical language to explain the failure.

Questions to consider:

• Why does this issue represent an example of injustice?
• What is the nature/origin of the problem?
• Why are there competing attitudes on the issue? What values are at stake?
• What does a moderate view of the issue look like, taking into account competing values?
• What are some possible solutions? How can they be achieved?
• Which individuals or groups are most affected by the issue? Who is not?
• Which theorists ideas are most relevant to this issue?

A successful essay will contain the following elements:

1. a) clear thesis statement articulating your view in intro paragraph
2. b) presentation of premises which support your point of view
3. c) presentation of the opposing argument
4. d) response to opposition argument (which shows that your view is superior)
5. e) application and discussion of theory from at least THREE philosophers covered in course
6. f) use of credible external sources and inclusion of Works Cited page
7. g) accurate application of moral theory, principles, and concepts from the course
8. h) discuss details: specific people, places, events, companies, decisions, etc.

• Do some research and draw on at least two high-quality sources. Do not rely on questionable web resources!  Take advantage of the CCC library and databases!
• How can different ethical theories be used to either justify OR condemn the company’s actions?
• Think about what your final conclusion will be – what claim do you want to make? Mention this in your introductory paragraph.

• Use evidence (premises) which demonstrate that your point of view is right. Draw on what you have learned about moral principles and theories.

• Consider what your opponent will say, and respond to likely criticism. Your goal is to be convincing and thorough.

• Do not rely on quotes, discuss the issue in your own voice while remaining as objective as possible.