The Risks and Ethics of Human Gene Editing

This Open Access book is about the risks and the ethics of human germline gene editing, i.e., the possibility to make heritable changes to the DNA of early human embryos or germ cells. Is there something particularly morally problematic about editing the human germline? Is there something unique about germline editing, and, if so, does this suggest that we ought not to edit the human germline, or only in particular circumstances or for particular purposes? What would be a wise and responsible approach to editing the human germline from a moral perspective? The book has three broad aims. First, to present an inclusive map over the current scholarly debate on the ethics of human germline gene editing. Second, to provide a philosophical and critical guide to the various ideas and arguments in this debate. Third, to apply an ethics of risk perspective and defend a morally cautious position on human germline gene editing.

Comprehensive presentation on the subject Introduction and comprehensive discussion Guidebook for decision-makers in healthcare and science This book is open access, which means that you have free and unlimited access

Auteur

Madeleine Hayenhjelm is Associate Professor in Philosophy at Umeå University, Sweden. She is currently appointed ethics expert on the Swedish Gene Technology Advisory Board.

Christer Nordlund is Professor of History of Science and Ideas and Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities at Umeå University, Sweden. He is a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences.

Contenu

Preface.- Introduction.- A New Pair of Scissors and Moral Alarm Bells.- Positions on the Germline Boundary: Stop, Wait, or Go?.- Three Moral Perspectives on the Permissibility of Germline Editing.- Moral Theory and Moral Reasons.- Categorical Objections to Germline Editing.- Consequence Arguments for and against Germline Editing.- Enhancement Arguments.- Lingering Concerns.- Human Germline as a Moral Boundary: Categorical, Conditional, or Precautionary?.- References.