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Heritable Human Genome Editing: The Public Engagement Imperative
Eli Y Adashi1, Michael M Burgess2, Simon Burall3
1Department of Medical Science, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
The CRISPR Journal
|December 21, 2020
Summary
Heritable human genome editing (HHGE) could cure genetic diseases, but a national decision requires thorough public engagement and societal dialogue. This paper outlines principles for evaluating public opinion on HHGE implementation.
Area of Science:
- Bioethics
- Genetics
- Public Health
Background:
- Heritable human genome editing (HHGE) presents potential for eradicating genetic diseases.
- HHGE is widely considered a life-sustaining medical advancement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the necessity of comprehensive public engagement before national decisions on HHGE implementation.
- To outline foundational principles for understanding and evaluating public opinion on HHGE.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the ethical considerations surrounding HHGE.
- Review of calls for societal dialogue on clinical HHGE use.
- Development of principles for public opinion formation and assessment.
Main Results:
- A national go/no-go decision on HHGE implementation must involve extensive public discourse.
- International bodies also advocate for broad societal dialogue on human germline genome editing.
- Foundational principles for public opinion analysis are presented.
Conclusions:
- Societal decisions regarding the clinical application of HHGE should be informed by robust public engagement.
- The formation and evaluation of public opinion are critical for responsible HHGE policy development.
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