Modern Wisdom #823 - Dr Jonathan Anomaly - Is It Ethical To Hand-Pick Your Child’s Genes?
235 snips
Aug 10, 2024 
Dr. Jonathan Anomaly, a philosopher and expert in genetic ethics, dives into the contentious waters of genetic selection. He discusses the moral dilemmas of choosing traits for children and how this could reshape society. Anomaly critiques the historical misuse of IQ testing and its implications on discrimination. He explores societal divides arising from genetic advantages, raising ethical concerns about embryo selection, intelligence, and health. Their conversation also touches on the cultural impact of declining birth rates and the future of genetic engineering.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Treatment vs. Enhancement
- The treatment-enhancement distinction in genetics is conceptually and morally unclear.
- Enhancing crooked teeth with braces is accepted, so enhancing other traits might also be ethical.
Gene Erosion and Mutation Load
- Civilized societies accumulate bad mutations due to healthcare and reduced natural selection.
- We must either select for lower mutation load or return to harsher natural selection to counter this.
Government Subsidies and Religious Resistance
- Governments might subsidize IVF to boost birth rates, leading to more embryo selection.
- Some religious groups may resist this, creating genetic disadvantages for their offspring.