Dr. Kourany, by way of her exploration of “promises vs. perils” in her human enhancement lecture, mentioned that one of the “perils” includes the fact that, from an ethical standpoint, “moral” enhancement will more than likely become neglected. As a result, problems such as war, pollution, continued poverty, global warming, economic crisis, etc., might not only worsen, but as the “promises” of human enhancement increases, so does more temptation to do wrong: new properties, chemicals, pollutants, addictive potentials, risks, and overall public dangers are created along with these “promises.” What do we, as a society, do to avoid this “increased moral peril?” Well, I do not think that it can, per se, be avoided, and of course, an easy answer does not exist. However, Kourany mentioned a continued and ongoing “public awareness” for educational purposes is imperative. I also believe that an extended effort within the legal system would be beneficial, as well.
But, despite these potential preventative measures, as Kourany expressed, an inescapable consequence as far as a cost vs. benefit, would be the social divide between the higher-class society with enhancements and the lower socioeconomic status class. The result: and even deeper divide and further exclusion from those who have the monetary means and those who do not. Yet, with respect to the U.S.’s upcoming healthcare reform, supposedly, as far as health insurance goes, the public sits on a more level playing field. What then of pharmacological human enhancements and preventative medical treatments for genetic disorders or genetic enhancements? While we know that depending on the source, these enhancements can be costly, will the system cover the costs for all, or will a new category of medicine/treatment be created? While I realize that my queries are extremely broad in nature, I suppose my overall goal in bringing these issues to light is to, at very least, suggest the complicated nature in genetic and pharmacological enhancements with respect to the upcoming changes in healthcare. While I am not against these changes, I am wondering if this system will be a “promise” or a “peril”—work for the benefit or the detriment of all U.S. citizens—as far as human enhancements are concerned?