designer DNA…a step forward or a step backwards???

July 18th, 2008

As scientists gain a greater understanding of biological processes, they’re also gaining a greater understanding of how to manipulate them, including the very essence of what makes us human — our DNA.

Biotechnology advances are already helping scientists find groundbreaking ways to create personalized medicine, detect illnesses and eradicate disease.

And this, according to futurist Ray Kurzweil, is only the beginning.  In the future, humans will be able to reverse the aging process, replace dying organs with younger ones grown from an individual’s own DNA and even genetically engineer unborn children, he said.

But some, like the UK-based group Human Genetics Alert, worry the ability to reprogram our biochemistry could lead mankind into unknown territory with dangerous ramifications for the future, including genetic discrimination and even a redefinition of what it means to be human.

To what extent should we be able to alter our genetic makeup? Should there be a limit? And how should it be determined exactly what that limit is?

(Excerpt from CNN)

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