Ethical and Social Implications of Genetic Research

Ethical implications of Genetic Research
Genetic testing can be defined as the process of studying DNA of an individual
to find out the similarities, differences or susceptibility to different diseases. This is
a process or rather technology that Scientists hold in high self esteem as they can be
used to preserve important remains for study in the future(Botkin, et al. 20).Besides,
scientists view this technology as beneficial since they can use the genetic testing
procedures to save or transfer desirable characteristics from one organism to
another. Apart from this, genetic testing can also be used to eliminate or reduce the
harm of some genetic diseases like the Downs Syndrome. Based on this
explanations, scientists view genetic testing as the right technology.

However, genetic testing is viewed as wrong technology by religious institutions
or individuals. According to the catholic religion to be particular, genetic testing is
totally wrong since some results can be very overwhelming and lead to undesirable
acts like abortion which the Church view as a sin(Green, et al. 398). Religious
institutions therefore perceive genetic testing technology as a wrong procedure.
According to majority of the doctors genetic testing can be used to establish the
likelihood of someone suffering from certain genetic conditions. Incase an
individual is susceptible to the genetic condition, necessary intervention programs
are initiated to prevent the harm or the cost of treatment of the condition. This
therefore implies that doctors view genetic testing as a right technology.