71. The study of genetics is today so far advanced that we shall soon be
able to produce a kind of genetically "perfect superman", using techniques known
as "genetic engineering". At first this may seem an attractive possibility, but
when we consider it in detail, we find there are many problems
involved. A distinction is usually made between "negative"
and "positive" genetic engineering. In negative genetic engineering we try to
eliminate harmful genes to produce genetically normal people. The aim is of
course a desirable one; however, it does pose the problem of what a harmful gene
is. Genes are not really either "good" or "bad". The gene which causes certain
forms of anaemia, for example, can also protect against malaria. If we eliminate
this gene we may get rid of anaemia, but we increase the risk of
malaria. In positive genetic engineering we try to create better
people by developing the so-called "good" genes. 72. But although this form
of genetic engineering will give us greater control over mankind’s future, there
are several reasons for caution. First there is the possibility of mistakes.
While aceepting that geneticists are responsible people, we must also admit that
things can be wrong, the result being the kind of monster we read about in
horror stories. Secondly, there is the problem of deciding what makes a
"better" person. We may feel, for example, that if genetic engineering can
create more intelligent people, then this is a good thing. On the other hand,
intelligence does not necessarily lead to happiness. Do we really want to create
people who are intelligent, but perhaps unhappy 73. The
basic question is whether or not we should interfere with human life. We can
argue that much human progress (particularly in medicine ) involves interference
with life. To some extent this is true; but we should not forget the terrible
consequences genetic engineering can have. Consider for example the
possibilities of genetic warfare, in which our enemies try to harm us using the
techniques of genetic engineering ...