Should testing be approved for human genetic engineering?
Before this question can be answered, we must explore the differences between Genetic Engineering and Human Cloning. Over the last century there have been remarkable advancements in the field of scientific research. While this new knowledge has produced technology that has benefited and made our lives better with items such as: the electric motor; Freon-based refrigeration; silicon chips; communication devices; and much more; it has also produced a new field of study, called Genetic Engineering.
The area of research known as Genetic Engineering is a vast and ever-growing field of study. It encompasses a wide variety of specific areas of scientific investigation; with many being practiced regularly in our daily lives. These areas of study include: Natural Selection; Selective Breeding; Genetic Manipulation; True Genetic Engineering; and finally Active Cloning, (or playing God). Many people become frightened when they hear the term Genetic Engineering. Immediately, they become confused by the terminology. They mistake the generic label for this area of research, Genetic Engineering, with the very specific, name Genetic Cloning. Although cloning can be a specific target for scientists practicing in this field, the term genetic engineering does not necessarily mean cloning. This can be very bewildering for the everyday layperson.
In an effort to avoid confusion on my thoughts regarding Human Genetic Cloning, I will define the individual areas of study relating to Genetic Engineering.
Natural Selection
Natural selection is the term we use to describe the evolutionary process for living organisms. Reproducing organisms, (such as plants and animals),autonomically evolve by duplicating specific, species related, favorable traits within their genetic coding. These characteristics are then inherited, or passed on, to its primary offspring. Each successive generation continues to re-duplicate the chosen characteristic until it becomes a common or dominant trait for that species. During this period of genetic restructuring, weaker or unfavorable traits are inherited less often. Eventually, these undesirable characteristics become less common, or recessive, in new generations.
True Natural Selection behaves primarily on the phenotype or observable characteristics of individual species. Examples of phenotypes may include blue eyes; blond hair; aggressive behavior; skin pigmentation; or any other characteristic governed strictly by genetic inheritance. The scientifically accepted theory of natural selection is based solely in the belief that individuals with favorable phenotypes are more likely to survive and reproduce. Individuals with less favorable phenotypes will not survive or reproduce. Favorable or preferred genetic phenotypes are therefore more likely to become permanently adapted to the host species.
The autonomic selection of preferred, or dominant genetic phenotypes; and removal of weaker, or recessive genetic phenotypes result in species specific adaptations. These adaptations allow species to find unique ecological niches in which they can survive. This unique combination of genetic mutation and ecological migration, in theory, will eventually produce new species. It is this very process that is known as True Natural Selection. It is the foundation of today's accepted study of modern biology.
Selective Breeding
Selective breeding or "Un-Natural Selection", is the most rudimentary human effort at genetic engineering. It has been used by people, since the late 1800's. It began with the discovery of Charles Darwin's- ON THE ORIGIN OF SPECIES BY MEANS OF NATURAL SELECTION, or, THE PRESERVATION OF FAVOURED RACES IN THE STRUGGLE FOR LIFE (24 November, 1859). It is the process of gradually producing a refined breed of plant or animal; separate from its original species. It is used to produce new heartier lines of livestock; healthier or more desirable breeds of domesticated dogs; and as a tool for zoologists attempting to preserve species in danger of extinction. Although this method of genetic engineering has been very successful, it can take many generations to bring about the desired changes in a chosen species.
"Un-Natural Selection" is achieved by enhancing the desired genetic markers or traits of a species by eliminating individuals, in the local population, that do not possess the characteristic dominantly. This is generally achieved by one of two methods of selective breeding. The first, known as line breeding, is accomplished by sequestering one specific bloodline or genetic strain from all others. The second, known as, in breeding, is generally thought to be the most cruel form of "Un-Natural Selection". This method of genetic isolation is accomplished by the forced breeding of genetically related individuals within a species.
Continuing murmurs have existed within the scientific community, suggesting "Un-Natural Selection" as a possible solution for genetically engineered human beings. This theory believes the support of hormonal therapy can assist couples with the mass production of fertilized eggs. Eggs would then be "grown" in a laboratory for a specified period of time. Individual eggs could then be tested for desired genetic traits; prior to utero implantation. In theory, this process could help to eliminate genetic diseases and disorders. There are a large number of flaws to this theory, including: damage caused to the human body, due to prolonged use of hormone therapies; moral dilemmas relating to the disposal of undesired fertilized eggs; unexpected mutations that may occur during the "fermentation and incubation periods" of viable embryos; as well and as many other unforeseen difficulties caused by this procedure.
Genetic Manipulation
Genetic Manipulation, is also known as: Genetic Engineering; Recombinant DNA Technology; Genetic Modification and Manipulation; and Gene Splicing. It is a relatively new discipline in the study of genetic engineering. It is the construction of hybrid organisms, and is sex-based . Although it is becoming more common in its use, it is not as widely accepted as other forms of genetic engineering. Genetic manipulation is the art of introducing new genetic material into a cell, altering its existing genetic coding. This scientific discipline, revolves around the isolation, manipulation, and alteration of DNA. After being altered, DNA is reintroduced into a host organism, with the hope that this organism will excrete or develop the desired proteins.
The purpose of this type of Genetic Engineering, is to physiologically or physically introduce new traits or characteristics into a host subject. This procedure can be used either to enhance existing traits or produce new traits within an organism. An example of this would be genetically modifying a plant such as wheat to become less resistance to cold environments. There have been many successful trial experiments using this technique. These have included: the manufacturing of human insulin by bacteria; the manufacturing of erythropoietin in Chinese hamster ovary cells; and the genetic modification of staple crops, allowing for increased planetary food production.
Although the scientific community has enjoyed numerous successes in this area of research, there has been a large public outcry against further studies. Many grassroots groups have sprung up across the United States and Europe demanding Genetic Manipulation Research be stopped. However, the worldwide scientific community believes this research is essential to the future of scientific evolution. Available information relating to to this area of research, is primarily focused on its use in farm animals. Literature can be found can be found both for and against its continuing applications in the scientific community.
Active Cloning or Playing God
The last area of Genetic Engineering that I will define is known as Active Cloning or Molecular Cloning. This scientific discipline involves the research, which will allow scientific communities, to not only define a genetic sequence, but also to replicate that initial sequence multiple times. This method of genetic engineering has been regularly and triumphantly utilized to amplify specific DNA fragments. It has numerous uses and practical applications within the scientific community. However, its expansion makes Active Cloning possible.
Active Cloning involves a four step process, which includes: DNA fragmentation; DNA ligation; DNA transfection; and DNA screening and selection. It is this area of research, which frightens most people, and has been outlawed in the United States. This process was used in the cloning of a tadpole; a carp ; and the subsequent 1996, cloning, of a sheep named Dolly. It has since been used to clone a female Rhesus monkey; two bulls , known as Alpha and Beta; a cat known as Little Nicky; a mule; and a horse; just to name a few. The immediate result of these cloning experiments is the moral dilemma of "should we."? Just because scientific research provides us with the technology to do something, does this mean that we should attempt it?
There has been a world wide outpouring of controversy on this subject. The scientific community has touted the implications of this technology; stating it can be effectively used to reproduce donor specific organs-increasing the quality of life for ailing citizens. Scientific expert's have also said this technology can be used, effectively, to eradicate horrific diseases such as, cancer and AIDS. However, many religious organizations have entered this dispute, devoutly opposed to the use of any type of cloning. Statements made by world renowned religious icons, such as the Pope, indicate a belief that life begins at conception; not invention. Political groups have also entered this highly charged controversy, indicating a concern for protecting the individual human identity. Hollywood has even entered the discussion, by producing such movies as, Arnold Schwarzenegger's "Sixth Day" The average layperson has concerns that rest somewhere between those expressed by the most vocal activist groups.
So, where do I stand in all of this? I guess you would have to say, my views, lay somewhere in the middle. I have spent endless hours educating myself on the advancements the scientific community has made in area of HUMAN GENETIC ENGINEERING - OR CLONING. Yet, I have spent even longer hours searching my soul, to define my moral beliefs on the subject. While I believe we have the technology to continue our scientific march towards the evolution of a "perfect" human being, I also believe our race for technology has clouded our humanity. Technology should only be used to assist us as human beings. It should not, and cannot be used to replace us. The moment we begin to clone ourselves, we lose the ability to discern our soul-the core of our very being.
I cannot imagine a world, where it's possible to replace the individuality, that makes each human being unique. I worry about a government who's leader has become ill and died; being instantly replaced by a cloned version of himself or herself, without public knowledge. The conspiratorial implications of a tool this dangerous must not be overlooked. The most dangerous aspect of this technology is man's sole desire for power. It is this desire, deep within the inner heart of man, which makes this technology such a volatile concept. I do not believe the human race has the ability to police its own desire for perfect power-and it is in that desire that this technology poses the greatest threat to all.