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Genetics' dreams in the post genomics era.
1European Commission, Bruxelles, Belgium.
Medicine, Health Care, and Philosophy
|April 17, 2002
Summary
Human germ cell manipulation is not feasible due to genetic reductionism and a flawed understanding of genetic diseases. This exploration highlights the heuristic limits of current human genetics research.
Area of Science:
- Human Genetics
- Bioethics
Background:
- The concept of pre-ordained human germ cell manipulation has been proposed.
- Gordon (1999) suggested the possibility of direct, pre-determined genetic modification of germ cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically evaluate the heuristic limits of human genetics.
- To assess the feasibility of pre-ordained human germ cell manipulation.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis of genetic reductionism.
- Examination of the prevailing concepts of genetic diseases.
Main Results:
- The claim of pre-ordained human germ cell manipulation is deemed unrealistic.
- Genetic reductionism presents significant heuristic limitations.
Conclusions:
- Current understanding of genetics and disease is insufficient for precise germ cell manipulation.
- The theoretical possibility of pre-ordained germ cell modification is challenged.