Eugenics is ethical
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Eugenics is ethical when it is controlled by the individual
When decided by groups of people, eugenics used to single out and abuse others. If a patient or parent decides to use genetic engineering to change one person, it is ethical.
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The Argument
When decided by an individual, eugenics is an ethical practice. In the past, eugenics was seen as unethical because groups of people were discriminated against in the name of science. If an individual decides to undergo a genetic treatment, it is clearly ethical since it is by that person’s choice. People should be allowed to improve their health through gene therapy as they see fit. [1]
Additionally, parents should be allowed to decide the genetic makeup of their children in order to ensure a healthier lifestyle for the child. When a child is in the womb, the parents have authority over the child and their health. These decisions may include altering their child’s genetic code in order to prevent the child from inheriting or transmitting genetic disease. If the parents are well informed and choose this for the health of their child, their practice of eugenics is ethical. [2]
Counter arguments
It is unethical for parents to intervene with nature and change their child's features. Parents could abuse eugenics by using it for more than health purposes. This can lead to physical enhancements and appearance alterations based upon the preference of the parents. This can be influenced by negative motivations such as conformity with society. Widespread conformity such as this can be abused and lead to discrimination of those that are not designer babies. [2]
Proponents
Premises
[P1] Only the patient should have the final say in decisions concerning their personal health.
[P2] Eugenics through means such as gene therapy can improve a person's health.
[P3] If the patient freely decides to undergo eugenic practices, it is ethical.