Bioethics & medical law

The Ethics and Risks of Gene Editing (CRISPR) in Humans

LNAT Section B · Founder's essay plan

The essay question

Discuss the ethics and potential risks of using gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR, in humans.

The plan

Stance

Against unrestricted human gene editing — ethical principles and risks demand strong limits.

Jurisdiction focus: Mixed (UK law, EU, US, Chinese cases).
Word target: 750.

Definitions

Gene editing (CRISPR): The direct alteration of DNA sequences to correct, enhance, or remove genes. Distinguished between somatic editing (affects only the treated individual) and germline editing (heritable changes passed to future generations).
Ethics: Assessed via moral philosophy (autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice) and human rights principles.
Risks: Not only scientific (off-target mutations, unintended consequences) but also social (eugenics, inequality, discrimination).

Assumptions under challenge

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