Human Genome Editing and a Global Socio-bioethics Approach

Area of Science:

• Bioethics
• Genetics
• Societal Ethics

Background:

• Revolutionary gene editing technologies, exemplified by CRISPR-Cas9, enable human genome modification.
• These advancements necessitate a robust ethical framework to navigate complex challenges.
• Françoise Baylis's work, 'Altered Inheritance,' addresses these issues at multiple levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the ethical implications of human genome editing technologies.
• To propose a global socio-bioethics approach for addressing these challenges.
• To advocate for "slow science" and broad societal consensus in bioethical decision-making.

Main Methods:

• Ethical inquiry and analysis of CRISPR-Cas9 technology.
• Examination of ethical considerations at individual, societal, and global levels.
• Review of concepts for "slow science" and public empowerment in bioethics.

Main Results:

• The book "Altered Inheritance" offers insights into practicing "slow science."
• It demonstrates methods for achieving broad societal consensus by empowering the public.
• A global socio-bioethics approach is presented as vital for advancing bioethics.

Conclusions:

• A global socio-bioethics framework is essential for managing gene editing technologies.
• Empowering the public and practicing "slow science" are key to ethical progress.
• Baylis's work provides a roadmap for the future development of bioethics.