Anna's Deep Dives

_{Just facts, you think for yourself}

Designer Babies & Human Enhancement

Gene editing allows scientists to alter human embryos before birth. This could remove genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia. It also raises concerns about selecting traits like intelligence, strength, or appearance.

"Designer babies" refers to children whose genetic traits are modified. CRISPR enables precise DNA edits. Some experts warn this could lead to a new form of eugenics, where only the wealthy access genetic enhancements.

In May 2024, South Africa became the first country to legalize heritable genome editing, sparking global debate. The Third International Summit on Human Genome Editing in 2023 warned the technology remains too risky for human use.

Public opinion is divided. A Pew Research survey found 68% of Americans worry about gene editing for healthy babies, while only 49% feel optimistic. Many fear it will deepen inequality, benefiting only those who can afford it.

Gene editing also raises concerns about human enhancement. Some want to improve physical and cognitive traits beyond disease prevention. A 2025 study found 66% opposed pharmacological cognitive enhancers, fearing unfair advantages in education and work.

Most support gene editing for medical use but reject enhancement. A review of 53 global studies showed approval for preventing genetic disorders, but opposition to modifying intelligence or athletic ability.

Scientists warn of unintended consequences. Editing genes could have unknown long-term effects. A UK citizens' jury emphasized the need for public dialogue before allowing genome editing for enhancements.

Regulations vary. While 70% of people support strict laws on gene editing, some countries, including China and Russia, continue research on genetic enhancement.

Advancements in biotechnology could improve lives but also widen social divides. Ethical discussions must guide responsible use of gene editing.

The Risk of Eugenics & Genetic Discrimination

Eugenics is the belief that certain people have better genes than others. In the early 1900s, this led to forced sterilizations and immigration restrictions. California continued sterilization programs until 1979. Even in 2013, reports surfaced of coerced sterilizations in some U.S. prisons.

Gene editing revives concerns about eugenics. CRISPR allows precise DNA changes that could be used to select “desirable” traits. If only wealthy individuals can afford gene editing, health disparities may grow.

Professor Osagie K. Obasogie from UC Berkeley studies eugenics' impact on modern science. His research shows some sperm banks promote "superbabies," raising concerns about genetic discrimination.

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