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CSUN Genetic Testing And Eugenics Discussion

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Introduction:

One scientific technique or practice related to genetics and eugenics is pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD). PGD is a reproductive technology that involves screening embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) for genetic abnormalities before implantation into the mother’s uterus. The rationale behind the use of PGD is to identify embryos carrying genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities so that only healthy embryos are implanted, reducing the risk of passing on hereditary diseases or conditions to future generations.

Answer:

Pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) is a technique that can be viewed from different ethical perspectives. On one hand, proponents argue that PGD offers prospective parents the opportunity to have healthy offspring by minimizing the risk of genetic diseases or conditions. It enables parents to make informed decisions about selecting embryos for implantation based on the absence of certain genetic abnormalities. This can provide peace of mind to parents who have a high risk of passing on serious genetic disorders to their children.

Moreover, PGD has been utilized to prevent the occurrence of certain inherited diseases such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, Huntington’s disease, and certain forms of cancer predisposition syndromes. By identifying embryos carrying these genetic disorders, the technique allows for the selection of unaffected embryos, significantly reducing the chances of individuals being born with debilitating conditions and improving the overall well-being of future generations.

On the other hand, critics argue that PGD raises ethical concerns related to eugenics and the potential for selecting embryos based on non-medical traits such as gender or intelligence. Moreover, there are concerns about the potential slippery slope towards creating a society where genetic enhancement becomes the norm, leading to a loss of diversity and acceptance of individuals with genetic differences.

While the use of PGD can be justifiable when used solely for medical purposes, such as preventing severe genetic disorders, it becomes ethically controversial when non-medical traits are considered for selection. It is essential to ensure that the use of PGD remains within ethical boundaries and aligns with societal values and principles. Responsible and transparent regulation is necessary to ensure that this technique is not misused for the sake of genetic manipulation or discrimination.

In conclusion, the use of pre-implantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) offers potential benefits in preventing the transmission of serious genetic disorders to future generations. However, ethical considerations and careful regulation are crucial to avoid the misuse of this technology. Only when PGD is used solely for medical purposes and within appropriate boundaries can it be considered justifiable.