Ryan Yates

Biology 1090
Taking Sides Readings
Issue 12
Is Genetic Enhancement and Unacceptable Use of Technology?
Michael J. Sandel The Case Against Perfection
Howard Trachtman A Man is a Man is a Man
3. The act of Genetic enhancement is moral question. Also Genetic
enhancement could be used to prevent certain diseases. Enhancement
in one way or another has always happened around us with newer
medicines and better technologies. Treatments and enhancements do
not always turn out the way that we a had planned.
4. Genetic enhancement is a flawed concept; by enhancing humans
you take away the uniqueness of ones life. On the no side he believes
enhancement only grants a better appreciation for us as humans. He
also believes that on our quest to create a perfect person we will
ourselves realize that that is impossible.
5. He states that enhancement will lead to side effects and complete
overhaul of peoples natural genes, making this a blanket statement.
Stating that all athletes wil flock to new drugs, once again branding
athletes as a stereotype for this new drug. Stating all parents would
want to genetically modify children on the basis of making them

better than average. Stating that overambitious parents would get

carried away and transform their children out of want rather than love.
6. Comparing preventative care to enhancement I.E x-ray to bone
growth. Stating that no enhancement will ever be suitable or come
equal to our standards as consumers. Lack of progress means that we
shouldnt worry about enhancement because it isnt all its cracked up
to be. Since this is a philisphical matter it is a little different to say
that enhancement is either justified or unjustified..
7. Honestly I was a little divided. This is a moral issue so people will be
biased throughout the discussion. I was equally impressed with both
articles. Both made valid arguments, and made points clear and
concise. I am more biased to say enhancement should be welcomed, it
like so many other things can be used for many goods while also being
abused for others personal gain. I do have to say I enjoyed Mr.
Trachtmans article and point of view.
8. I believe both writers are biased. This is purely based on each others
belief on how others would react in news of a brand new way to better
peoples lives. One is opposed because he believes people will abuse
this power, while the other is in favor because this could lead to
greater things and more knowledge. So absolutely both parties are
biased.
9. I personally believe Mr. Trachtman is correct. He states that just
because we have the ability to enhancement does not necessarily

mean that we would abuse it. He states that we have always had
some method of enhancement just not to the level we want. He
believes that as we progress so will our understanding of what can and
cant be done as well as what should and should not. Thus ultimately
leaving it up to us whether or not we should pursue something as big
as human enhancement.