Lesson 23.
The Ethics of Genetic Engineering (遺伝子工学の倫理)
▮ Explanatory Text:
Genetic engineering, the process of altering the DNA of organisms to change their characteristics, presents profound possibilities for medicine, agriculture, and the environment. It includes techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9, which allows for precise edits to the genome, offering potential cures for genetic diseases, ways to increase crop yields, and methods to address climate change. However, genetic engineering also raises significant ethical questions related to safety, consent, naturalness, and equity. These include concerns about unforeseen consequences, the morality of ‘playing God,’ potential increases in social inequality, and the rights of genetically modified organisms. This topic explores the ethical considerations surrounding genetic engineering, balancing the benefits against the moral dilemmas it poses.
▮ Common Phrases:
1. Genetic modifications can lead to…
2. Ethical concerns about genetic engineering include…
3. The potential for gene editing to cure diseases is…
4. Debates on genetic modifications often revolve around…
5. Equity issues in genetic engineering arise from…
▮ Example Sentences:
1. Genetic modifications can lead to increased resistance to diseases in crops.
2. Ethical concerns about genetic engineering include the risk of unintended consequences in the ecosystem.
3. The potential for gene editing to cure genetic diseases is a significant advancement in medical science.
4. Debates on genetic modifications often revolve around the concepts of naturalness and human intervention in evolution.
5. Equity issues in genetic engineering arise from the accessibility of advanced treatments and technologies.
▮ Questions:
1. What are the potential benefits of genetic engineering for society, and how do they weigh against the ethical concerns?
This question encourages learners to discuss the advantages of genetic engineering and balance them with ethical considerations.
2. How should society address the ethical dilemmas posed by genetic engineering in humans, such as gene editing for disease prevention versus enhancement?
Participants explore the ethical boundaries of genetic engineering in humans, distinguishing between therapeutic uses and enhancements.
3. What measures can be taken to ensure equitable access to the benefits of genetic engineering across different socio-economic groups?
This prompts a discussion on strategies to prevent inequality exacerbated by access to genetic engineering technologies.
4. & 5. How do international regulations and guidelines address the ethical concerns of genetic engineering, and are they sufficient?
Learners examine current regulatory frameworks for genetic engineering and assess their effectiveness in addressing ethical issues.
Discuss the role of public opinion and societal values in shaping the future of genetic engineering.
This question invites speculation on how societal attitudes towards genetic engineering might influence its development and regulation.
▮ Discussion Instructions:
Select an aspect of genetic engineering that interests you, such as its application in medicine, agriculture, or environmental conservation. Discuss the ethical considerations associated with this application, including both the potential benefits and the concerns it raises. Reflect on how these ethical dilemmas might be addressed and what role scientists, policymakers, and the public should play in guiding the development of genetic engineering.
