Reproductive Freedom and Genetic Engineering: A Reply to Habermas
Type de matériel :
39
The paper challenges the validity of a right to an unaltered genome, which could ground an absolute interdiction of genetic engineering. More specifically, two theses, recently elaborated by Habermas, are rejected. The first one is that there is a universal understanding of human nature, granting the untouchable character of the human genome. Incompatible with a liberal approach, foundations hitherto provided by human nature are now likely to be disclosed by a fine balance between a plurality of values: reproductive autonomy, interests of the future child, social justice. The second thesis to be rejected is that a teenager, whose genome has been enhanced, has a valid claim against her parents because she feels she’s not “the full author of her life.” Such a claim is not legitimate, all things being equal, unless the genetic domain is granted an arbitrarely priviledged status.
Réseaux sociaux