71. The study of genetics is today so far advanced that we shall soon be able to produce a kind of genetically "perfect superman

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问题     71. The study of genetics is today so far advanced that we shall soon be able to produce a kind of genetically "perfect superman", using techniques known as "genetic engineering". At first this may seem an attractive possibility, but when we consider it in detail, we find there are many problems involved.
    A distinction is usually made between "negative" and "positive" genetic engineering. In negative genetic engineering we try to eliminate harmful genes to produce genetically normal people. The aim is of course a desirable one; however, it does pose the problem of what a harmful gene is. Genes are not really either "good" or "bad". The gene which causes certain forms of anaemia, for example, can also protect against malaria. If we eliminate this gene we may get rid of anaemia, but we increase the risk of malaria.
    In positive genetic engineering we try to create better people by developing the so-called "good" genes. 72. But although this form of genetic engineering will give us greater control over mankind’s future, there are several reasons for caution. First there is the possibility of mistakes. While aceepting that geneticists are responsible people, we must also admit that things can be wrong, the result being the kind of monster we read about in horror stories. Secondly, there is the problem of deciding what makes a "better" person. We may feel, for example, that if genetic engineering can create more intelligent people, then this is a good thing. On the other hand, intelligence does not necessarily lead to happiness. Do we really want to create people who are intelligent, but perhaps unhappy?
    73. The basic question is whether or not we should interfere with human life. We can argue that much human progress (particularly in medicine ) involves interference with life. To some extent this is true; but we should not forget the terrible consequences genetic engineering can have. Consider for example the possibilities of genetic warfare, in which our enemies try to harm us using the techniques of genetic engineering ...

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答案尽管这类基因工程使我们能更好地控制人类的未来,但仍有几点理由使得我们需要特别审慎。首先,差错在所难免。我们相信遗传学家是认真负责的,但同时也必须承认,事物有可能出现偏差,其结果就会是造就出我们在恐怖小说中读到的那种怪物。

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