Our Opinion

As CRISPR becomes increasingly prominent, a myriad of differing opinions among scientists, legal scholars and bioethicists in regards to the moral and legal questions have been raised as a direct result of the development of this new technology. We have similarly managed to collectively develop our own opinion in regards to CRISPR and its usage.

Considering the ethical implications and potential consequences, limitations on this medical technology should absolutely be implemented and strictly enforced in order to ensure the responsible use of CRISPR. With that being said, CRISPR has the incredible potential to revolutionize how we confront many of the world's biggest problems, ranging from life threatening diseases to food shortages. Ultimately, individuals should be given the freedom to choose their own genetic destiny and strive for healthier, happier lives. CRISPR is an extremely viable option in doing so.

Gene therapy should be covered by healthcare in order to prevent a socioeconomic disparity in the availability of the treatment and thus the prevalence of a disease, forcing lower classes to suffer. It should also highly regulated and gene editing should only occur in public laboratories. This is due to the threat that private laboratories can not be regulated nearly as easily and may create designer babies or use gene therapy in other illegal ways.

Despite the large amounts of backlash from both the scientific communities and the general public, the future of CRISPR is closer than it appears. After all, CRISPR is not an outrageously expensive, inaccessible form of technology. On the contrary, it is available and currently being implemented. The era of human gene editing has already begun. From agriculture to animals to humans, CRISPR is sure to have a significant impact within our society sooner or later. Therefore, as of now, it is crucial that individuals are aware of the social importance behind such a practice.