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Assessing genetic technologies. Two ethical issues
1Case Western Reserve University.
International Journal of Technology Assessment in Health Care
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Understanding the social context of genetics is crucial for assessing ethical issues in genetic technologies. Contemporary genetics presents challenges, questioning assumptions about choice and improvement, especially in reproduction and therapy versus enhancement.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Bioethics
- Sociology
Background:
- Assessing genetic technologies necessitates understanding their ethical implications and social context.
- Contemporary genetics is shaped by societal factors and underlying presumptions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss 10 factors characterizing the social context of contemporary genetics.
- To examine two common presumptions: 'more choice is always better' and 'what can be improved should be improved'.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and conceptual analysis of social and ethical dimensions of genetic technologies.
- Examination of case studies in genetic screening and testing.
Main Results:
- Genetic screening and testing for reproductive choice yield ambiguous benefits.
- Nondirective counseling in prenatal testing becomes problematic with a growing test menu.
- Increased reproductive choice may shift responsibility towards ensuring genetically 'healthy' offspring.
- Genetic technologies blur the line between therapy and enhancement, with potential for non-health-related applications.
Conclusions:
- The social context significantly influences the ethical landscape of genetic technologies.
- Assumptions about choice and improvement in genetics require critical re-evaluation.
- Future genetic technologies will increasingly challenge the therapy-enhancement distinction, demanding careful ethical consideration.
Keywords:
Genetics and Reproduction