Ethics of Emerging Technologies: Biological and Genetic Engineering

A scientific paper published in 2003 reported that the ACTN3 genotype is associated with human elite athletic performance. While coaches and athletes seem very interested in the potential of genetic testing for identifying potential pro athletes and genetic engineering to improve athletic performance, others worry that genetic profiling and engineering would result in the loss of opportunity to participate in athletics for those who could not afford genetic engineering.

The case study looks at the public debate surrounding the development and widespread use of genetically engineered crops and farm animals, and the problems that exist in regulating and relatively new technology when little is known about its potential negative effects on human health and the environment. The case looks at the different ideologies and methods the European Union and the United States in regulating genetically modified organisms, and the issues the difference in these regulations.

An interesting case study (including teaching guide) looking at the ethics of selling glow-in-the-dark plants on Kickstarter.

This short report by the Nuffield Council on Bioethics looks at some of the ethical issues raised by the growing use of genetically modified crops in developing countries.

A Q & A page discussing how the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is regulating genetically engineered animals.