The care with which philosophers examine arguments for and against forms of biotechnology makes this an excellent primer on formulating and assessing moral arguments.
Although most people find at least some forms of genetic engineering disquieting, it is not easy to articulate why: what is wrong with re-engineering our nature?
Breakthroughs in genetics present us with the promise that we will soon be able to prevent a host of debilitating diseases, and the predicament that our newfound genetic knowledge may enable us to enhance our genetic traits.
To grapple with the ethics of enhancement, we need to confront questions that verge on theology, which is why modern philosophers and political theorists tend to shrink from them.
One argument is that the drive for human perfection through genetics is objectionable as it represents a bid for mastery that fails to appreciate the gifts of human powers and achievements.
Step-by-Step Explanation
Correct Answer:1Explanation:
Statements (3), (2), (4), and (5) discuss the ethical issues of genetic engineering. They introduce the topic, raise moral questions, and explain one argument against human genetic enhancement. Statement (1) is the odd one out because it talks about how philosophers evaluate moral arguments instead of contributing to the discussion on genetic engineering.
