Reference no: EM133381286

In the movie Spiderman, a character states, "With great power, comes great responsibility." In Chapter 3, students are introduced to the Human Genome Project, a scientific endeavor that is destined to change the world as we know it (i.e., great power). Advances made by Human Genome Project researchers have also raised a variety of ethical concerns. For example, the development of tests to identify carriers of diseases and for prenatal detection of diseases such as cystic fibrosis and Huntington's disease has been met with mixed responses. Some applaud these tests as they could prevent many infants from being born with damaging or deadly illnesses. Others believe that the test has more drawbacks than benefits as they may lead to a world in which only "perfect" people will be allowed to be born. There is also growing concern over who should have access to the results of genetic tests.

You are going to have to make some powerful decisions in your career from a moral standpoint.

1. Should partners be obligated to inform each other of any genetic defects in their family?

2. Does a child or adolescent have the right to request (or refuse) to have genetic testing done to them?

3. Should insurance companies have the right to access the results of genetic tests so they can adjust the rates for an individual?

4. Should employers be able to screen potential employees based on genetic tests?

5. Should the government have the right to require genetic testing if it leads to healthier infants?