Human Genetic Engineering- Eugenics All Over Again?

PhD Student, Laura Hix, at Northwestern University wrote an essay regarding the modern development of Eugenics. In her essay, Hix argues that in order for Human Genetic Engineering to avoid the historic downfalls of Eugenics, a honest and open dialogue must exist between scientists and the general public. She highlights recent developments in the study and how (albeit slightly controversial) practice of these scientific innovations have been both positive and forebodingly negative.

Hix mentions Ashanthi DeSilva, who in 1990, as a four year old child with SCIDS (Severe Combined Immune Deficiency Syndrome) became the first patient to be successfully treated using gene therapy. While this is an important step in understanding and treating genetic disorders, could a possible resurgence in the popularity of Eugenics occur? As history has shown, renaming/rebranding an idea can be extremely influential to the public perception of an idea. Could it be that our concern over these ethical issues is lessened due to the use of the word "therapy"? While I won't argue that understanding the Human Genome and how to manipulate genetics is incredibly valuable, it does raise ethical concerns (which scientists who strongly backed Eugenics are aware of).

One of Hix' concerns regarding Genetic Engineering is the misuse of this technology in the field of sports. It has already been proven in animals that there are genes that can be inserted into muscle cells which have a greater effect that current steroids do. Due to the intense pressure on athletes, and the widespread illicit use of current steroids, is it not easy to imagine these athletes undergoing these procedures as well?

I believe that in order to maintain regulation over genetic therapy/engineering, Hix is correct- a honest and transparent discourse with the general public is necessary. Public awareness of potential uses and ramifications will lay the framework for an incredibly important field of science that we are currently embarking towards.