Is genetic testing ethical?
May 1st,
2022 Words:
1,421
Future of Humanity
Liberty University
Master of Medical Sciences
MSCI 640
Whether the results are negative or positive for a certain gene mutation, genetic testing is
always beneficial. Genetic testing can help make informed decisions about managing health and
also gives a sense of relief from uncertainty.1 Additionally, it raises the possibility of early
intervention and diagnosis, which then increases the efficacy of survival rate and treatment
availability. Because of this increase in genetic testing and fear of discrimination by society,
insurance companies, and employers, disciplines of genetics, ethics, and public health have
congregated.2 Any kind of discrimination caused by genetic testing is unethical and immoral; on
the other hand, testing itself is very much encouraged and ethical. I had very similar opinions as
my classmates in those patients who are at risk for developing certain diseases should be tested
to treat or prevent the condition prior to it becoming life-threatening. Genetic testing is also
beneficial for couples who are considering having a child so that they are aware of the high risk
of passing down possible diseases.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your
ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
How does this relate specifically to neo-eugenics?
By definition, neo-eugenics is the practice and use of genetic manipulation to improve
human hereditary qualities by encouraging the breeding of those with the desired chrematistics.
The reason for genetic testing is to become aware of the genetic mutations that are associated
with diseases and to enhance the efficiency of treatment and bring patient awareness.
Nonetheless, many of them decide to use genetic testing as a way to ensure their children aren’t
at risk for developing certain life-threatening diseases. Because of this, genetic counseling and
testing can be framed as a eugenic practice. I believe as did some of my classmates, that neo-
eugenics can be very beneficial to our society. The key concern that comes with this is the loss of
genetic diversity. This “improvement” to the gene pool that many long for may increase
vulnerability to certain diseases and decrease the ability of individuals to adapt to any kind of
environmental change.2
Is sex selection ethical?
I believe that the sexual selection of offspring can bring up many ethical issues. It’s extremely
controversial when selecting the gender of the child before because of our basic human rights.
Gender preference and sex selection are technically considered prejudice and sexual
discrimination, creating the effects of gender imbalance.3 In my own opinion, I don’t think we
should be selecting the gender of our children as it does benefit them in any way. The nonmedical
selection of our offspring undermines God’s gift which is life.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give
you a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11).
Is surrogacy ethical?
Many of my classmates and I believe this is very much an ethical and safe option for those who
are struggling to have a child. We also believe that surrogacy is a very important method of
assisted reproductive technology because it allows couples who’ve been struggling to conceive a
chance at having a family. The public, however, does have concerns regarding the
commodification, exploitation, and or coercion when women are getting paid to deliver babies and
become pregnant, particularly in cases where there’s a large power wealth differential between
intended surrogates and parents.4 Another major concern is the bonding between the child and
the mother. It’s impossible for the surrogate mother to not form some kind of bond with the child
she carried for many months. One of my classmates pointed out, that there are certain guidelines
that must be followed by all participants in the surrogacy program in order to avoid
any commodification or unethical exploitation. I believe, however, there’s no way to change the
ethical concerns surrounding that bond between a mother and child. “Behold, children are a
heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward” (Psalm 127:3)
Case Study 10.1
This case study was very interesting to me as it discusses Dr. Oliver Dickerson’s academic
integrity in question. Many of his lab assistants are leaving the lab because of his aggressive style
and pressuring them to complete certain tasks with unreasonable expectations. Because this was
brought up with the research integrity office, it should definitely be investigated. In my opinion, I
would ask each one of the trainees and ask about Dr. Dickerson’s behavior and confirm the
accusations of Professor Sandra Sarkar. If the lab assistants agree with Professor Sarkar, there
must be an investigation done on Dr. Dickerson.
“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the crookedness of the treacherous destroys them”
(Proverbs 11:3).
Case Study 10.3
This case study talks about a man named Joshua who ends up altering a figure on the research
paper he’s been working on in order to eliminate questions about data he discovered while he was
working on his PCR analysis. Dr. Fang informs Joshua that it’s not acceptable and he must alter
his approach to this. Dr. Fang suggests that he crops the image to show only the data he wants to
present in his research paper. I believe this is a much more logical approach and think Joshua
should take the advice of Dr. Fang to crop the image. It’s not worth risking his career due to
scientific misconduct. I was surprised to see that some of my classmates suggest for Joshua stay
true to his work and not alter the image at all. After some thought, I do think this
could be a good option for him. “A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes
out lies will perish” (Proverbs 19:9)
Discussion Question 1
Julian and Boyle Savulescu both argue that genetic testing cannot be ethically prohibited
in modern society.5 Their argument is that parents can decide to terminate pregnancy for reasons
besides the results of genetic testing and also that fetal genetic testing cannot be unethical.
However, Hensley argues that fetal genetic testing is unethical and a way of playing God. After
reading about this discussion question, I can understand the viewpoints of both. I think fetal
genetic testing is ethical, and if the child is suffering from pain after birth, then termination of
pregnancy is acceptable. However, I don’t believe that genetic testing is ethical if it’s used for
selective breeding of desirable traits.
Discussion Question 2
Looking over the different viewpoints from Chapter 4, I found a number of differences
and similarities. The arguments on pro genetic testing had similar views on how genetic testing
in the workplace and insurance could potentially help cut costs. On the other hand, in regard to
immigration, the pro genetic testing arguments were somewhat different. One of the main ethical
reasons was the prevention of certain deadly diseases from entering the country. The authors who
are against genetic testing made the point that genetic testing could most likely lead to
discrimination. After reading the viewpoints of both sides, I believe that genetic testing should
continue to be private and not be disclosed to immigration status, employers, or insurance.
References
1.What are the benefits of genetic testing?: Medlineplus Genetics. MedlinePlus.
https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/testing/benefits/. Published July 28, 202.
2.Fulda KG, Lykens K. Ethical issues in predictive genetic testing: A public health
perspective. Journal of medical ethics.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2564466/. Published March 2006.
3.Eftekhaari TE, Nejatizadeh AA, Rajaei M, et al. Ethical considerations in sex selection.
Journal of education and health promotion.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4456876/. Published May 19, 2015.
4.Patel NH, Jadeja YD, Bhadarka HK, Patel MN, Patel NH, Sodagar NR. Insight into
different aspects of surrogacy practices. Journal of human reproductive sciences.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6262674/. Published 2018.
5.Wagner V. Biomedical Ethics. 5th ed. Detroit, MI: Greenhaven Press; 2008.
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