Of course, gene editing, like so many other Frankenstein horror stories, might turn out to have a limited effect and be strongly resisted. Rather like modified crops.

But let's say it becomes highly effective. No doubt, where it's done for profit, there'll be superior offspring for the wealthy. The usual duds for the poor.

Not for profit, I like. Genetic diseases rectified for all. Nice....

Breed a creed to fight wars for us? Could happen in some vile superpowers.

Good, bad, indifferent. It depends on your imagination. Plan for the worst, hope for the best.

Christopher NOCK

Thank you for your thoughtful feedback Christopher, well said. "Plan for the worst, hope for the best" indeed! That can be applied to most things in life.

I believe it is too soon to discuss the topic seriously.

Thank you Dennis. I would tend to agree with you wholeheartedly but if it's really already happened, the discussion may be forced upon us.

Hi there,

Good point you raise here! I raised it in my class a few days back.

From an ethical point of view, I have my serious hang ups because this door may lead to all sorts of things. My other concern is that we may be tampering with the natural order of things, whose full impact and implications into the future is unclear. Third, some one is trying to play "creator" and that should be left to God or nature alone.

On the positive side, Gene editing may help in many ways, provided it is seriously and ethically regulated. The trouble is that in a post modern context, it is very hard to arrive at consensus on what is right or wrong. A good frame work would limit or prevent abuse, encourage decision by the parents or patients etc. It may further help us avert some terminal illnesses that have menaced the world thus far.

If you asked me, I would rather travel circumspectly on this path. Let nature be nature.

Cheers