MIT Technology Review Narrated cover image

MIT Technology Review Narrated

Beyond gene-edited babies: the possible paths for tinkering with human evolution

Dec 4, 2024
Explore the transformative world of gene editing and the potential futures it holds for humanity. Delve into the ethical dilemmas surrounding CRISPR technology and the contentious debates about genetically altered beings. Picture a landscape where human genetics could be modified, raising questions about societal access and moral responsibilities. This discussion highlights both the groundbreaking advancements and the challenges we face in contemplating our evolution.
30:43

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Quick takeaways

  • CRISPR technology advances pose ethical dilemmas regarding gene editing's impact on human evolution and societal norms.
  • The potential for gene editing to enhance health and cognitive traits raises critical questions about access, equity, and biological identity.

Deep dives

Ethical Concerns Surrounding Gene Editing

The advent of CRISPR technology presents profound ethical dilemmas regarding gene editing and human evolution. Jennifer Doudna, a pioneer in this field, expressed fears about the implications of creating genetically modified humans, emphasizing that such actions could irreversibly alter human evolution. Concerns intensified after the revelation of a Chinese scientist, He Zhenkui, who conducted unethical gene editing on embryos, raising significant moral questions about consent and the safety of such techniques. Critics argue that editing human embryos not only poses medical risks but also could instigate a slippery slope toward eugenics, thereby altering the very fabric of society.

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