Genetic engineering is the manipulation of DNA, which has the potential to bring about significant advancements in fields such as medicine and agriculture. However, it has also raised ethical and legal questions about the impact of such manipulation on individuals and society. One of the primary ethical concerns about genetic engineering is the potential for harm to the individuals involved. For example, genetic engineering could be used to select particular traits in embryos, leading to discrimination against individuals who do not have those desired traits. Additionally, genetic engineering could lead to unintended consequences, such as developing new diseases or creating genetically modified organisms that could harm the environment.
Another ethical concern is the potential for genetic engineering to perpetuate social inequality. Genetic engineering could be used to select certain desirable traits, such as intelligence or physical attractiveness, which could exacerbate existing societal hierarchies and create new ones.[1] This could also lead to the creation of a genetic underclass of individuals who do not have access to genetic enhancement. Legal questions surrounding genetic engineering centre issues such as informed consent, patenting of genetic material, and regulation of genetic research. For example, individuals may not fully understand the risks associated with genetic engineering and may be unable to provide informed consent. Additionally, patenting genetic material could limit access to essential medical breakthroughs, as companies that own patents may charge high prices for their products.
Regulation of genetic research is also a concern, as there may be insufficient oversight to prevent unethical practices. Some have argued that genetic engineering should be subject to strict regulations similar to those for other potentially dangerous technologies, such as nuclear power. Despite these concerns, there are also potential benefits to genetic engineering.[2] For example, genetic engineering could cure or prevent genetic diseases, such as sickle cell anaemia or cystic fibrosis. It could also be used to create genetically modified crops that are more resistant to pests or better able to withstand droughts, potentially increasing food security in developing countries.
Ultimately, the ethics and legality of genetic engineering depend on how it is used and regulated. While certain risks are associated with genetic engineering, there are also potential benefits that should not be ignored. It is essential that society carefully considers the potential impacts of genetic engineering and works to develop ethical and legal frameworks that balance the potential risks and benefits.
In addition to the ethical and legal concerns mentioned above, genetic engineering raises other important issues related to individual rights, privacy, and social justice. One key issue is the potential for genetic discrimination.[3] Genetic information obtained through genetic engineering could be used by insurance companies, employers, and other institutions to discriminate against individuals based on their genetic makeup. For example, insurance companies could use genetic information to deny coverage or charge higher premiums for individuals at higher risk for certain diseases. This could lead to widening existing health disparities and further marginalising vulnerable populations.
Another issue is the potential for unintended consequences. Genetic engineering is a relatively new technology, and the long-term effects of manipulating DNA are not yet fully understood. There is a risk that genetic modifications could have unintended and unforeseen effects on individuals and the environment. For example, genetically modified crops could crossbreed with wild plants, potentially creating new species that harm the environment.
The issue of equity also arises in discussions of genetic engineering. The development and use of genetic engineering technologies may be concentrated in certain countries or regions, leading to unequal access to the benefits of the technology. Additionally, specific populations may be excluded from genetic engineering research or the benefits of genetic engineering due to economic or other factors. Regarding legal considerations, patenting genetic material is a particularly contentious issue. Companies with patents on genes or genetic sequences can charge high prices for diagnostic tests or treatments, potentially limiting access to life-saving medical care for some individuals. Additionally, patenting genetic material can stifle innovation and research by limiting the ability of other researchers to study or build upon existing genetic information.
Finally, there is the issue of informed consent. For individuals to make informed decisions about participating in genetic engineering research, they must be fully informed about the potential risks and benefits of the technology.[4] However, there is concern that individuals may not fully understand the implications of genetic engineering or may be coerced into participating in research without fully understanding the risks involved.
In conclusion, genetic engineering is a complex and multifaceted issue that raises important ethical and legal questions. While there is potential for genetic engineering to bring about significant advancements in medicine and agriculture, these advancements must be pursued ethically and responsibly, taking into account the potential risks and benefits for individuals and society as a whole.
Author’s Name: Aditya Sharan (Symbiosis Law School, Noida)
[1] The Pure Food Campaign Homepage <http:/www.geocifies.com/Athens/ >152
[2] Phyllida Brown & Kurt Kleiner, Patent Row Splits Breast Cancer Researchers, NEW SClE~rrlST, Sept 24, 1994, at 4.
[3] Council for Responsible Genetics, No Patents on Life!: DNA Patents Create Corporate Monopolies on Living Organisms <http://essential.org:80/crg/crg3.html>.
[4] Molly O’Neill, Geneticists’ Latest Discovery: Public Fear of’Frankenfood; N.Y. TIMES, June 28, 1992, at Al.
