The term ‘designer baby’ is a colloquial one used to describe the theoretical situation of a newborn baby whose genetic profile has been artificially created by selective genetic engineering. The term can describe any form of genetic engineering, from the minor examples of removing certain genes to remove the threat of genetic disorders, or as major as the complete classification of a baby, from skin colour to personality. Technology has advanced significantly over the last few decades, and the knowledge of the human genome is increasing exponentially. Genetic engineering is now flourishing; specifically, the genetic engineering of newborn babies is no longer in the realms of fantasy.
Soon it may be possible for a given individual’s entire genome to be mapped conveniently and for a reasonable price. Furthermore, any traits that link to undesirable characteristics can be modified so that the offspring has a reduced risk of certain diseases, even look or behave in a certain way, and have a certain intelligence.
The realm of designer babies and in general genetic engineering and modification is a very controversial issue, and for very obvious reasons. In terms of designer babies, the ethical implications of such practises are vast and involved. At the centre of the ethical opposition is that as humans, we do not have the right to change what is natural, or in other words, we should not have the right to ‘play god.’ There are many objections that are not necessarily based primarily on ethics, and oppositions are based on the unforeseeable side effects that genetic engineering would have on the human race if such practise was implemented and widespread. Some have gone so far as to suggest that the human gene pool would be negatively affected by such practise. These are nestled alongside the common social problems many have predicted would occur if designer babies became common.
If you are writing an essay or research paper on the subject, then addressing the pros and cons of genetic engineering is a good choice. Researching online will give you many different sources of information, with many arguments for and against, and it is up to you to go through such research to plan your own discussion. Your article should end with a resolution and your opinion on the matter. Professional writers are standing by to write your paper for you, and they give guaranteed, reliable, and high-scoring academic material.
