Genes, embryos, and future people

Article Abstract:

It is possible to test embryonic cells for genetic abnormalities and thereby to predict whether or to what degree the future human beings will have disease or disability. In addition, freezing of embryos for long time periods makes it possible to change a normal human lifespan. Shortcomings exist in somatic-cell gene therapy and germ-line genetic alteration. However testing and selective termination of genetically defective embryos is the medically and morally defensible way to save people from existence with severe disability and suffering that make lives not worth living. Ethical questions exist relative to frozen embryos.

Gene therapy, Genetic disorders, Medical ethics, Frozen human embryos

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Locating the beginnings of pain

Article Abstract:

The question of whether a fetus feels pain is complicated by the fact that pain is a multidimensional process. The experience of pain requires not only sensation, but cognition, and this requires an emotional context to be considered conscious. Philosopher Daniel Dennett argues that to feel pain requires a sense of self which reflects upon the experience. This conscious conceptual system of object permanence does not begin until 12 months of age.

Research, Fetus, Physiological aspects, Pain, Dennett, Daniel C.

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Freedom and a right (not) to know

Article Abstract:

The article analyzes the relationship between the idea of a moral right to personal self-determination and the idea of a moral right to know or not to know. That the right to have or not have genetic information can be defended on the ground of a right to self-determination is argued, and that this defense presupposes several normative, and controversial arguments.

Autonomy (Psychology)

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