Genetic Engineering. “Factor X” in human beings Essay Example

belief in unique human "essences" and suggests that what may appear as a species' essence is actually an accidental result of random evolutionary processes. David Hull shares a similar perspective on human nature, considering it accidental rather than unique. He believes that the existence and distribution of human universals largely stem from coincidental evolutionary events (Fauvism 152). Hull expresses concerns about establishing human rights based on uncertain human nature and questions whether fundamental similarities among humans are necessary for ensuring these rights (Fauvism 153).

The text also discusses geneticist Lee Silver's views on genetic engineering and its implications. Silver recognizes the importance of individual differences in granting rights but argues for a pivotal similarity among individuals.Silver argues that regardless of sexual orientation, individuals should not be denied rights and there is a common ground among all. He supports genetic engineering to ensure control and avoid leaving outcomes to chance. He questions why positive genetic influences should be rejected when parents have other ways to benefit their children. Silver also highlights the impact parents have on their children through social or environmental factors like drug use. While he acknowledges that genetic engineering could potentially eliminate the need for such interventions, he expresses concerns about its potential misuse leading to the creation of a genetically superior class known as the Generic who may separate from humanity. The text suggests that if integrated into society, genetic engineering may result in a hierarchical system. According to Fauvism (156), prejudice and changeable environmental conditions were often responsible for denying certain groups their rights. Empirical science has disproven beliefs such as women being too irrational or impulsive for politics, and southern Europeans

being inferior to northern Europeans. Fauvism states that traditional religious values breaking down did not disrupt the moral order because morality stems from human nature, not culture (156). Concerns arise regarding the concentration of scarce genetic variations within specific social groupsSome people underestimate the potential of biotechnology to create new genetic classes in the future. Fauvism suggests two options: either banning the use of biotechnology for enhancing human attributes, which may be met with resistance as people may not want to give up enhancement technologies, or enforcing compliance. Another option is to improve society's lower end by using technology to breed more intelligent, healthier, and "normal" children through state intervention (159). Natural genetic engineering already exists through selecting mating partners and producing offspring. Assortative mating occurs when successful individuals marry each other and pass on favorable traits to their children, increasing the chances of inheriting advantages (Factually 56-157). This type of mating can disadvantage individuals who lack certain genetic traits that cannot be compensated for in their offspring. However, it is important to note that assortative mating does not guarantee the inheritance of favorable traits. Many accomplished individuals today attribute their success to their birth circumstances and upbringing, recognizing that various factors could have changed their lives' trajectory. These individuals consider themselves fortunate and can empathize with those less fortunate (Fauvism 156). The introduction of scientific genetic engineering would only further increase the likelihood of inheriting specific traits.According to Madeleine Albright (3), the existence of "Factor X" within individuals is argued for. She highlights the pivotal role played by Pope John Paul II in uniting East and West in Poland through his influential words, which

instilled bravery among the people and led to a revolution. The Pope's audience gained strength from each other, eliminating divisions into small groups as previously done. This challenged the communists' efforts to isolate dangerous ideas. Albright (3) asserts that the Pope's visits had a significant impact on Poland as they contributed to liberating the country. Furthermore, these visits played a crucial part in dismantling the Berlin Wall and reuniting Europe, ultimately resulting in transformative changes worldwide.