Human transgenesis

definitions, technical possibilities and moral challenges

Daniel Mendes Ribeiro

Nara Pereira Carvalho

Mariana Alves Lara

Antonio Cota Marçal

pp. 513-524

in: Russell Powell, Guy Kahane, Julian Savulescu (eds), Evolution, genetic engineering and human enhancement, Philosophy & Technology 25 (4), 2012.

Abstract

In this article, we examine the ethical implications of human transgenesis by considering the phenomenon in its larger evolutionary context. After clarifying the concept of transgenesis, we show that rather than unprecedented or unnatural, transgenesis is a common aspect of the evolutionary process that has likely affected all extant living animals, humans included. Additionally, we demonstrate that human transgenesis is technically feasible and that the moral barriers to it are mostly based on irrational fears premised on distorted and unrealistic views of "human nature". Furthermore, we suggest that transgenically modifying persons might be morally preferable to relying blindly on the "natural lottery", and that it is possible to do so in an ethical and responsible manner.