Date sent: Wed, 19 Jul 2000 07:33:04 +0100
To: "S. Lerner" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
From: Keith Hudson <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Subject: Re: FW Genetically Modified Humans
Copies to: [EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Indeed, I think that there is no doubt that within a
> generation it will be common practice for young
> middle-class individuals to have themselves tested, and
> for intending couples to have their DNA profiles
> compared by geneticists before deciding whether to form a
> serious relationship from which children may issue. I
> don't think there will be any greater danger from this
> than the practice that has been going on from time
> immemorial in human affairs -- rich and economically
> powerful males marrying the best-looking females they can
> find, even if they're poor. In both cases, such social
> separation, whether genetic or economic, largely
> disappears after two or three generations.
Sally's diplomatic reply notwithstanding, this troubles me.
I read the discussion only for amusement and good
recipes, I'll admit. And I wouldn't dare to contradict
someone who so obviously knows what he's talking about.
But I don't much care whether it appears inevitable that
couples will have themselves screened as whether it is
right or wrong -- less still whether it reminds anyone of
eugenics practised by the Nazis and others closer to home.
Is it right, or is it wrong? If it's wrong, it must be
opposed, just as those who practise(d) eugenics
involuntary on their victims must be condemned.
I don't see any evidence that the advantage of inherited
wealth is lost after 2 or 3 generations, but I'm more than
a little cynical about the defence of anything that is
founded upon the residual benefits to those who are
perpetually disadvantaged. Was there ever a government
subsidy to business that wasn't justified on the basis of
job creation?
Let the debate be polarised as it should be. It's an ethical
issue of the first order. And as a lifelong atheist I'm proud
to be on the losing side, if that's what it comes down to.
Shame on you Keith.
John McLaren
--
John McLaren
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