What Does It Mean To Be Human Essay

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What exactly is the perfect human being, and how do we define this when society and technology continues to revolutionize every aspect of what has traditionally been defining features of humanity? As humans continue to push the boundaries of science, biotechnology will give us the power to decide our biological future. The emerging biotechnology of genetic modification will pave the way to enhance human’s capability. Imagine a generation who will grow up not having to suffer the stigma and terror of AIDS, and who will not experience Tay-Sachs because a method to prevent these diseases have been manufactured. Until recently, all this would have been mere science fiction. Although these developments promise to result in a more effective and advance …show more content…

It is apparent that every human experiences life uniquely and differently. To a certain point, genes variation is the basis of diversity of a species. Different ways of life have different strengths and weaknesses. Yet, when a gene sequence is statistically common, we call the trait normal. However, the word normal does not simply imply being statistically superior, but rather even moral superiority. In addition, a unique gene variation that leads to a certain trait would be deemed a mutant - a word that not only implies statistically uncommon, but also inferior and to a certain extent, repugnance to society (Buck v. Bell). However, such judgements are meaningless. Simply because an enhancement or disabling trait are merely words that measure the fitness ability in a particular environment. If the environment is altered, then the meaning of the words could perhaps be reversed as well. The arrival or departure of genes may increase, decrease or even have absolutely no effect on an individual’s ability, depending on the situation. What is considered a disability in one circumstance can be an advantage in other contexts. Evolution is not perfect, even for its specific environment, because every change also requires change in response (476, Freeman). We do not exactly what traits will be valuable for future challenges we face and what traits won’t be. Therefore, there is certainly no such thing as a perfect

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