The use of genetic engineering to create genetically modified humans raises several ethical concerns that are complex and multifaceted. Here are some of the key issues:

1. Safety and Unintended Consequences

• Off-Target Effects: Genetic modifications, especially with technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, can have off-target effects, leading to unintended changes in the genome. These changes could potentially cause harm to the individual or future generations.
• Long-Term Consequences: The long-term effects of genetic modifications are not fully understood. There is a risk that changes made today could have unforeseen consequences on health, development, or genetic diversity in future generations.

2. Consent

• Informed Consent: Genetically modifying an embryo or germline cells raises the issue of consent. The individuals being modified cannot consent to the changes made to their genomes, which could have lifelong and potentially transgenerational effects.
• Parental Consent: Parents may consent to genetic modifications for their children, but this raises questions about whether it is ethical to make irreversible changes to another person's genetic makeup, especially when it might involve trade-offs or uncertain outcomes.

3. Social Inequality

• Genetic Enhancement: If genetic engineering is used for enhancement purposes (e.g., increasing intelligence, physical abilities, or appearance), it could exacerbate social inequalities. Wealthier individuals or countries might have access to genetic enhancements, leading to a genetic "underclass."
• Access and Equity: The availability of genetic engineering technologies might not be equal across different socioeconomic groups, potentially creating a divide between those who can afford genetic modifications and those who cannot.
• 4. Eugenics and Discrimination Designer Babies: The ability to choose traits such as intelligence, appearance, or even personality traits in future children could lead to a new form of eugenics, where certain traits are valued over others, leading to societal pressures to conform to specific genetic ideals. Discrimination: Individuals who are not genetically modified or who possess undesirable traits might face discrimination or social stigma, reinforcing harmful biases and potentially reducing genetic diversity. 5. Identity and Autonomy Impact on Identity: Genetic modifications could affect an individual's sense of identity. If certain traits are engineered, individuals might struggle with understanding whether their abilities and characteristics are truly their own or the result of genetic manipulation. Autonomy: The modification of human genetics could limit an individual’s autonomy over their body and future, particularly if these changes are made without their consent or if societal norms pressure them to undergo genetic modifications. 6. Moral and Religious Concerns Playing God: Many religious and moral frameworks view the act of altering human genetics as "playing God," challenging the natural order or divine design. This raises questions about the moral limits of human intervention in life creation. Sanctity of Life: Some argue that genetic engineering may undermine the sanctity of human life, particularly if it leads to practices such as selective breeding or termination of embryos based on genetic desirability. 7. Regulation and Oversight Governance: There is a need for global consensus on the regulation and oversight of genetic engineering practices. The lack of consistent regulations across countries could lead to "genetic tourism," where individuals seek modifications in countries with looser restrictions. Ethical Standards: Ensuring that ethical standards are upheld in genetic engineering practices is challenging, especially given the rapid pace of technological advancement and the diverse cultural perspectives on what is considered ethical. Conclusion The ethical concerns surrounding genetically modified humans are deeply intertwined with questions about safety, consent, social justice, and the very nature of human identity. These concerns require careful consideration and broad societal dialogue, along with the development of robust ethical frameworks and regulatory measures to ensure that genetic engineering is used responsibly and equitably.4o

Genetic engineering to create genetically modified humans raises several ethical concerns, including:

1. Safety risks: Unforeseen consequences, such as health problems or genetic mutations, could harm individuals or future generations.

2. Inequality and access: Only the wealthy might have access to genetic enhancements, exacerbating social inequalities.

3. Eugenics: Selective breeding or genetic modification could lead to a new form of eugenics, where certain traits are deemed "desirable" or "undesirable."

4. Identity and autonomy: Genetic modifications could alter an individual's sense of self or autonomy, particularly if introduced at an early age.

5. Consent: Obtaining informed consent from individuals, especially those unable to provide it (e.g., embryos), is challenging.

6. Germline modifications: Changes to reproductive cells could be passed down to future generations, raising concerns about long-term consequences.

7. Social and cultural implications: Genetic modifications could alter societal norms, cultural values, and human relationships.

8. Playing God: Some argue that genetic engineering humans oversteps moral boundaries, as it involves "designing" life.

9. Regulatory challenges: Existing laws and regulations may be inadequate to address the complexities of human genetic engineering.

10. Public understanding and engagement: Ensuring transparent communication and inclusive discussions about the ethical implications is crucial.

Addressing these concerns requires ongoing dialogue among scientists, ethicists, policymakers, and the public to ensure responsible development and use of genetic engineering technologies.

A sick endeavour ... and what is the overall goal?? Definitely against Nature itself!!!

There are lots of ethical concerns associated with using genetic engineering to create genetically modified humans.

1. It raises the issue of human autonomy, personhood and identity.

Can we attach personhood to a genetically modified individual?

There are ethical concerns with most things in business or not-for-profit organisations, relating to human decisions, or indecisions. The more leading edge and this with less well understood consequences, the more vocal the ethical concern. From Frankenstein's monster, to separated 'hosted' created 'human organs' to 'meatless meat'