In our previous issue, we published the article "The Ongoing Research on CRISPR-Cas9" by Emily K.

Emily drew attention to the ethical dilemma of this research and we included a poll inviting readers to weigh in on the debate. We asked the following question:

What do you think of CRISPR-Cas9?

a) It's worth it! It will change the world for the better!

OR

b) The risks are too great and there are serious ethical concerns.

Thank you to all who responded! Here's what you said:

To be honest, the effects of CRISPR-Cas9 are still unknown, but if we halt all testing about it, we might miss out on some major discoveries. There is also the possibility that someone else will create something similar to CRISPR-Cas9 but will use it un-ethically. The solution to this is to continue research on CRISPR-Cas9 while also properly regulating the field, so that we can make sure testing is ethical. - Leehua W.

CRISPR-Cas9 could be the solution to many genetics-related diseases. If a fetus is known to carry a disease that is caused by genetics, parents should be the ones to give consent on the use of CRISPR-Cas9 on their child. - Miranda

Sure, you could use the science for cosmetic purposes but what really matters is saving lives that are endangered because of illnesses like cancer. Obviously, there should be restrictions such as not being able to alter minors/unborn kids but the ability to cure severe illnesses is too great of a promise to ignore. - Ernest L.

No OCV readers responded in favour of Side 2!