Cons of Genetic Engineering: The Case Against Perfection by Michael J. Sandal

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Genetic engineering includes altering heredity structures of living organisms and food products to provide the substance with certain traits which may appeal more to one. Other desired characteristics with regards to the Human genome project scientists have had a breakthrough in science. Now scientists are able to create synthetic organs for transplants and prevent disease by manipulating genes. According to Grocery manufacturers of America 70% to 75% of processed foods contain genetically modified ingredients from plants. Curing disease and a longer lifespan are now in the distance. Also, benefits include using a smaller amount of resources to feed a growing nation. Citizens who do not support biogenetics have concerns with ethics, safety, and disease which are why GMO should be limited to non-existent. Research/Results Genetic engineering challenges ethics itself. In the “Case Against Perfection” by Michael J. Sandal the author includes multiple statements such as “manipulating our own nature” and “to make ourselves better” to argue what any type of person may do for self-improvement. With genetic engineering becoming more involved it is implausible to avoid, but as a race, humans have the ability to see what is right and what is wrong. For example, a competitor may find the need to increase physical aspects that enhance the athlete’s ability to perform at the next level. This is clearly wrong and can appear unfair to a natural contender and “degrades the game and player’s dignity “as “Tinkering with Humans “ by William Saletan describes modifying deoxyribonucleic acid. Additionally, reshaping born-give traits can become the next immense skill enhancer such as creatine. Another controversial topic is clon... ... middle of paper ... ...b. 18 May. 2014. 4. Sandel, Michael J. "The Case Against Perfection." Atlantic Monthly. April 2004: 50+. SIRS Issues Researcher. Web. 18 May. 2014. 5. Smith, M, Jeffrey..” GENETICALLY ENGINEERED CROPS MAY CAUSE HUMAN DISEASE.” Rachel’s Democracy & Health News. 31 Aug. 2006: N_A. eLibrary. Web 26 Apr. 2014. 6. Kallas, Julia. "Q&A: Health Impacts of Genetically Modified Foods Still Unknown." Global Information Network. 20 Oct. 2012: n.p. SIRS Issues Researcher. Web. 18 May. 2014. 7. Allison, Melissa. "GMO Ballot Battle Replays in Washington State." The Seattle Times. 26 Sep. 2013: n.p. SIRS Issues Researcher. Web. 18 May. 2014. 8. Saletan, William. "Tinkering With Humans." New York Times Book Review. 08 Jul. 2007: 7. eLibrary. Web. 18 May. 2014. 9. Pollock, Tracey. "Kaua'i Says 'No' to GMOs." In These Times. Dec. 2013: p. 12. SIRS Issues Researcher. Web. 18 May. 2014.

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