LessWrong (Curated & Popular) cover image

LessWrong (Curated & Popular)

“How to Make Superbabies” by GeneSmith, kman

Feb 20, 2025
Explore the groundbreaking potential of gene editing, where the concept of creating 'superbabies' comes alive with possibilities for enhanced intelligence and longevity. Discover the revolutionary Super Sox method in stem cell research, promising new frontiers in human health. The podcast also dives into ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic modifications and contrasts the advancements in human engineering with the rapid progress of AI. Could our future hinge on the balance between these two powerful technologies?
01:08:04

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Recent advancements in gene editing, like CRISPR, could enable the creation of 'superbabies' with enhanced lifespans and cognitive skills.
  • Embryo selection technology, while innovative, provides only modest IQ improvements compared to direct genetic modifications for significant enhancements.

Deep dives

The Potential of Germline Engineering

Recent research suggests that if safely and effectively implemented, genetic modifications could lead to the creation of 'superbabies' with significantly enhanced lifespans and cognitive abilities. Current gene-editing technologies allow for specific changes in the human genome to eliminate risks such as diabetes and mental health disorders. However, the scientific community exhibits hesitance due to ethical concerns, often dismissing the potential advancements in favor of more traditional approaches. This reluctance presents an opportunity for innovators to explore groundbreaking research in gene engineering despite institutional roadblocks.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode