This course explores the ethical implications of altering the human genome, discussing the potential for disease resistance, human evolution control, and the creation of synthetic human genomes. Participants will learn about the moral challenges associated with genetic manipulation and the societal impacts of rewriting the human genetic code. The course covers topics such as editing humans for climate change, genetic diversity contribution, cognitive enhancement for birth rate reduction, and the risk of governments creating super armies. The teaching method involves panel discussions with distinguished scientists and bioethicists. The course is intended for individuals interested in genetics, bioethics, and the ethical considerations of genetic engineering.
Overview
Syllabus
Amy Harmon Introduction
George Church tells us about his new BIG project
Drew Endy on the launch of constructing an organization that constructs human genomes.
Why does the human genome proposal come up now?
How could we edit humans for climate change?
Entrepreneurs have a trillion dollar market opportunity.
Human enhancement is tethered to human capacity
Is driving down the cost one of the goals of the project.
What about the contribution of genetic diversity?
Using cognitive enhancement to reduce birth rates
How do you get to a go, no-go situation?
How do you think altering our genome will change our society?
What would stop governments from creating super armies?
Taught by
World Science Festival
