Causes for Concern
This second period of Eugenics has the potential to be far more harmful to mankind than the first. The following causes for concern follow the three stages mentioned earlier in the Return of Eugenics. Each general concern only becomes worse as another stage is entered.
Stage 1
Increased Difficulty in Predicting Side Effects
The greater the number of gene interactions involved, the greater the number of possible outcomes. Also, the higher the complexity level of these interactions, the higher the probablity of side effects resulting from a change in the process or any of the genes involved in that process. Thus not only would it be more difficult to predict all side effects, there would be a greater likelihood of them occurring.
However, as noted before,
- “[The fact] that the multiple functions of genes and gene interactions are highly complex does not mean that all human genetic engineering will be on hold until we understand them. No technology ever develops in this fashion. New drugs are invented, tested, and approved for use all the time without the manufacturers knowing exactly how they produce their effects." (Fukuyama, )
Potentially Worse and More Complicated Negative Side Effects
Most drugs have side effects and are regulated as a result. However, most side effects remain unknown until the drug is actually tested in a large enough population. Some drugs have been recalled as a result of their side effects but only after a number of people were affected.
However, with genetic engineering especially, the stakes are simply higher. The genetic manipulation cannot be 'recalled' and may not be able to be treated since genes are more fundamental and their interactions are likely more complicated and less understood than conventional drugs.
This problem gets worse in the next stage.
Stage 2
The Blurry Line and Negative Externalities
Let the Competition Begin!
Stage 3
Humans? What humans?
If genetic engineering were to be legalized, who would have access to this technology?
Would there be a need for a genetic welfare democracy?
Would some kind of Superhuman class be inadvertently created by the market and the already-existing disparities in wage and wealth distributions along lines of race, class, or gender?
What happens when we continually treat human life in a utilitarian way?
When are Rights accorded to a human life? – Is this decision based on ability or superficial traits?
If we assert that the lack of these traits mean a lack of humanity or a lack of worth, what are we simultaneously asserting about people who currently live with disorders that lack these abilities or traits?
