Bioethics & medical ethics

Should Parents Be Able to Genetically Modify Their Children?

LNAT Section B · Founder's essay plan

The essay question

In the future, should parents have the option to genetically modify their children?

The plan

Stance

Against (parents should not be given unrestricted power to genetically modify children).

Jurisdiction focus: Global (ECHR, UNESCO Bioethics, US/UK).
Word budget target: 750.

Definitions

Genetically modify: The deliberate alteration of an embryo's DNA using techniques like CRISPR, with the aim of changing heritable traits.
Option: A legally sanctioned, socially accepted ability for parents to choose modifications, not merely experimental research.
Children: Future persons with inherent rights and dignity, recognised under UNCRC Article 3 (best interests of the child).
In the future: The question assumes technological feasibility, so the issue is moral, legal, and social rather than scientific capability.

Assumptions Under Challenge

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