One possible future?

Although gene therapy is still an experimental technique, some futurists have speculated that with expanded knowledge, scientists may potentially be used to 'improve' characteristics such as intelligence, personality or physical features. However, since hundreds of genes may be involved in any of these characteristics and these genes interact with the environment in which we develop, the task of genetically enhancing individuals would be difficult and complex.

An example of such concern is ‘gene doping’. That is, the possibility of athletes abusing gene therapy to ‘genetically modify’ themselves to gain a competitive advantage.

Research is underway to use gene therapy to increase red blood cell production (and therefore oxygen delivery to cells) in people with severe anaemia – however, this therapy could potentially be used to boost the capacity of athletes.

Gene therapy which has so far been found to increase muscle size in animal models, and which is intended for patients with muscle wasting diseases, could in theory be adapted to strengthen particular muscles in athletes.

ABC Health Report: http://www.abc.net.au/rn/talks/8.30/helthrpt/stories/s1076995.htm

Science News Online: http://www.sciencenews.org/articles/20041030/bob9.asp

Scientific American: http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?articleID=000E7ACE-5686-10CF-94EB83414B7F0000

Controversy exists as to whether ‘designer babies’ and gene doping will actually happen – some people maintain that such genetic alterations are too complex and have too many serious ethical implications, while others claim it is ‘only a matter of time’.

Recently, a number of popular films have attempted to visualise a ‘genetically modified’ future. For example, the 1997 science fiction film, ‘GATTACA’ is about a futuristic society in which embryos are selected and modified for intelligence, physical perfection, resistance to disease and athletic ability.

Children conceived in the normal way are treated as second-class citizens and relegated to menial jobs. While the film combines Hollywood action and adventure, it touches on a vision of a future that reflects many of the topical ethical issues and public concerns surrounding biotechnology today.

Listen to Penny Biggins’s idea of what the future might hold - GM Man

Check out a film review on the movie GATTACA: http://www.infilm.com.au/reviews/gattaca.htm

A perfect world - work sheet [PDF 61kb | 2 pages]

What would I choose? - work sheet [PDF 84kb | 3 pages]

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One possible future?