Humanity and human DNA.

Source

Professor of Medical Genetics, Marseille University; Member of the French National Academy of Medicine; Former French Minister of Health, Family Affairs and Disabled Persons (2002-2004); Chairman of the French Red Cross.

Abstract

Genetics has marked the second half of the 20th century by addressing such formidable problems as the identification and the operation of our genes, their interaction with the environment, and even their therapeutic uses. The identification of genes raises questions about differences between humans and non-humans, as well as about the evolution towards trans-humanism and post-humanism. In practice, however, the main question concerns the limits of prenatal genetic diagnosis, not only on account of the seriousness of the affections involved but also because of the choice to be made between following-up the medical indication and engaging in a systematic public health strategy aimed at eliminating children with certain handicaps. History reminds us that genetic science has already been misused by political forces influenced by the ideas of eugenics, particularly in the Nazi period. We may wonder whether it is reasonable to formulate a judgement on the life of a child yet to be born, merely on the basis of a DNA analysis. My experience as a practising geneticist and my involvement in French politics forces me to stress the dangers of a new eugenics hiding behind a medical mask. As demonstrated by epigenetics, human beings cannot be reduced to their DNA alone. In our society, one of the problems concerns individuals whose lives may be considered by some as simply not worth living. Another problem is that of the place and the social significance of the handicapped amongst us. Fortunately, recent progress in genetic therapy, biotherapy, and even pharmacology, appears to be opening up promising therapeutic perspectives. We should bear in mind that the chief vocation of medical genetics, which fully belongs to the art of medicine, is to heal and to cure. This is precisely where genetics should concentrate its efforts.

TimAllenMDJD

Tuesday, June 19, 2012