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September 21, 2015

Why should we treat a genetic mechanism differently than a dietary supplement or some external technology like the Internet?

It’s one thing to talk about impulse control and quite another to enhance the intelligence of a baby. Doesn’t this raise a whole new level of ethical concerns?

It does raise another level of ethical concerns, but we already aim to enhance intelligence through education. Computers and the Internet are also cognitive enhancers. We give children food supplements and better diets to enhance cognitive ability. So why should we treat a genetic mechanism differently than a dietary supplement or some external technology like the Internet? The only difference is gene therapy is really risky, and that’s why we don’t do it. But if it becomes safe, there’s no difference in ethical terms between gene therapy and any other sort of biological or social intervention. If science gives us the opportunity of improving people’s lives, we should use it. Julian Savulescu: The Philosopher Who Says We Should Play God

Posted by gerardvanderleun at September 21, 2015 8:30 AM. This is an entry on the sideblog of American Digest: Check it out.

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Posted by: Speller at September 21, 2015 12:40 PM

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