Genetic engineering has been seen by some as the "future for mankind and all the world". Is this true? Are we leading ouselves into a biotechnic trap? Or are there more profound aspects that have been overlooked? Is genetic engineering close to or as much the same as eugenics? What do you think?

I would love to hear all the different points of view :)

I ask you this:

What if the human race had the capability to produce enough sustenance to feed massive populations that otherwise would be starving? The answer is, via genetic engineering, we already do. Modern-day genetically modified agricultural products are altering the definition of health and the world's inhabitants are benefiting from them daily. Although there is the possibility for undesirable by-products of genetic engineering in the future, it is irrefutable that this technology is benefiting society today. In my opinion, the real question isn't whether or not genetic engineering should be outlawed; rather, it is whether or not limitations should be enforced upon the field.

Genetic engineering has undoubtedly enhanced the promise of humanity. Therefore, premature laws and restrictions are simply illogical and are frankly unconstitutional. Innocent is innocent until proven guilty. By inhibiting scientific freedom we destroy all chances of discovery, in turn annihilating all potential for progress. Let us live our lives wholeheartedly today, not placing too much emphasis on the potential worries and cares of tomorrow.

The bottom line is this: positive, beneficial genetic engineering capabilities are currently being used in agriculture, and they are here to stay. Of course, scientists should conduct research according to ethically acceptable norms. But since when was feeding the hungry ever an abomination?

Frankly, genetic engineering gives me a great deal of hope, but it sure does scare the hell out of me.

hehe... I guess I should've just said that

Stereotypical female response (details).

Stereotypical male response (more of a grunt).

I resent that.

It was more of compliment delivered in (apparently bad) joke form. Your argument was coherent and backed up with details. The details were not redundant, as the stereotype insinuates.

What about its future scares you?

It's true that the progress made in the agricultural field is of a great benefit, but why should we study human genetic enhancement when we already have the tools to feed and nourish our bodies. Or is it that we know that somewhere down the line we will probably stumble upon not needing as much sustenance as usual because of this human gene enhancement? What then will become of agriculture? Are we just going to use it to send off to the other planets that we were forced to discover because the human population exceeded that of the liveable area of the earth? Or will the agricultural economy cease to exist?

Actually, I think that's a question that we will never know unless this gene debate is settled in the next 20 years....

You're proving my point exactly. Either way, it is all human speculation. Don't you remember Y2K? We don't know what is going to happen. That's why I say that we should focus on the present of genetic engineering and not worry so much about the possibility of setbacks.

I know. I wasn't contradicting you. I was agreeing, just with more questions :).

lol - - - was confirming.... with rhetorical questions and declarative sentences ;) *I promise I'll get better @ this "actually being understood when you say something online" thing*

Edit: It was an empty promise - I meant "when I say something online"

Maybe we folks who suck at being clear should start out with at least "I agree fully, partially, or none at all" and so on. I mean we're really bad at this.

good idea.....

I don't understand whatever you mean, my dear Cloaked one, please inform me on what it is that scares you regarding genetic engineering.....

Better?

In response to your question regarding my fear of genetic engineering, Essyne, the possibilities are simply limitless. Genetic engineering is such a potentially powerful tool, and it could help so much, but it could hurt so much as well. AKA then end of our species, for an extreme.

Makes sense