Should We Use Gene Editing to Make Better Babies?
Topics: Science
Public Release Date: February 17, 2022
A genetic disease runs in your family. Your doctor tells you that, should you wish to have a child, that child is likely to also carry the disease. But new gene-editing technology could change your fate. It could ensure that your baby is -- and remains -- healthy. Even more, it could potentially make sure your grandchildren are also free of the disease. What do you do? Now, imagine it's not a rare genetic disorder, but a general illness, or eye color, cognitive ability, or athleticism. Do you opt into this new world of genetically edited humans? And what if it's not just you. What if your friends, neighbors, and colleagues are also embracing this genetic revolution?
Right now, science doesn't give you that choice. But huge advancements in CRISPR technology are making human gene editing a reality. In fact, in 2018, a Chinese scientist announced the first genetically modified babies; twin girls made to resist HIV, smallpox, and malaria. The promise of this technology is clear. But gene editing is not without its perils. Its critics say the technology is destined to exacerbate inequality, pressure all parents (and nations) into editing their children to stay competitive and meddling with the most basic aspect of our humanity.
In this context, we ask the question: Should we use gene editing to make better babies?
ARGUING YES:
Dr. George Church: Professor of Genetics, Harvard and MIT & Founder, Personal Genome Project
Amy Webb: Futurist & Author, “The Genesis Machine”
ARGUING NO:
Marcy Darnovsky: Policy Advocate
Françoise Baylis: Philosopher
MODERATOR:
John Donvan: Emmy award-winning journalist