Biotechnology and bioengineering are two scientific aspects of life that have been growing exponentially. These two concepts have helped scientists scale greater heights in finding solutions to some of the issues affecting human beings such as diseases and deformities. The human ability to manipulate biology is a scientific milestone that needs to be embraced and harnessed further. While there are some concerns that these technological advancements might be subject to abuse, it should not make the world shy away from exploring them. Safeguards need to be put in place to ensure that that the ability to manipulate biology is not abused but used to improve the lives and well-being of the billions of people across the globe.
Legal and Ethical Issues
It is also necessary to point out that biotechnology and bioengineering tend to pose both legal and ethical concerns. These concerns come into play when one is trying to ponder over whether or not they should just proceed to transform themselves if they are able to do so. In the long run before arriving at a specific decision, two competing interests need to be addressed. The first one relates to the autonomy that human have to make decisions pertaining themselves and the other revolves around the imminent ramifications that the transformation initiatives might have in the long run. In the event that transforming one’s body does not have any negative consequences people should be allowed to do so. However if there are there is a likelihood that it might harm people, such measures need to be avoided.
Different Approaches regarding the Topic
Different scholars hold different views regarding biotechnology. There are those who are completely against the technology, those who advocate for it and others who are seemingly seated on the fence on the topic. The first group is usually referred to as conservatives, the second ones are known as progressives whereas the last category of people is known as moderates. Leon Kass, one of the renowned conservatives believes that the world needs to exercise a lot of caution before embracing biotechnology and in some cases ensure that it is abolished. Another scholar with a differing perspective on the topic is known as Nick Bostrom who is also best known for his transhumanism as well as posthumanism ideologies. Bostrom believes that the world needs to embrace biotechnology and find the benefits of this modern technology.
Conclusion
Nonetheless, while scholars such as Kass might have drawn a hard line regarding the utilization of biotechnology, the world should avoid such conservative ideologies since they will deter any meaningful advancements in technology. People should listen to progressives such as Bostrom and strive to utilize biotechnology to improve human life. This is not to say that there might not be some negative consequences of implementing the technology but the advantages associated with the technology outweigh them. It would be doing injustice to people suffering from some disabilities or diseases if scientists are guided by moral concerns at the expense of the finding innovative ways of alleviating their pain and suffering. Finally, in as much as Kass is a medical doctor whereas Bostrom’s academic training has primarily been in philosophy and mathematics should not be an issue as long as both of these scholars can make valid arguments that are backed up by credible evidence.
