Designer Babies: How and Ethical Concerns
📑 5 slides
👁 10 views
📅 2/24/2026
Introduction to Designer Babies
Designer babies are genetically modified for desired traits using advanced biotech.
2
How Genetic Editing Works
- CRISPR-Cas9 acts as molecular scissors to cut and replace DNA sequences.
- Process involves IVF: embryos are edited before implantation.
- Current focus is on eradicating hereditary diseases like cystic fibrosis.
- Future possibilities include selecting for intelligence or appearance.
3
Ethical Concerns: Inequality
- Could create a genetic divide between rich and poor populations.
- Only wealthy families may afford enhancements, widening social gaps.
- May lead to new forms of discrimination based on genetic traits.
- Questions about fairness in sports or academics with enhanced individuals.
4
Ethical Concerns: Human Identity
- Altering genes may change what it means to be naturally human.
- Risk of reducing diversity by favoring certain traits over others.
- Potential loss of random genetic variation that drives evolution.
- Could parents' choices limit a child's future autonomy?
5
Conclusion and Future Outlook
- Technology is advancing faster than ethical guidelines can keep up.
- Global consensus needed on limits to prevent misuse or harm.
- Potential for good is immense but must be balanced with risks.
- Society must decide: how far is too far in designing our children?
1 / 5