Is heritable genome editing compatible with equality in an inclusive society?

Heritable genome editing is being increasingly viewed as socially and morally acceptable so long as certain criteria are met. However, even despite these criteria, heritable genome editing may be in conflict with a progressive and inclusive society where all persons are considered equal. In this short animation, the Scottish Council on Human Bioethics presents philosophical arguments explaining why heritable genome editing may be at odds with equality in an inclusive society.

The Scottish Council on Human Bioethics was formed in 1997 as an independent, non-partisan and non-sectarian organisation composed of doctors, lawyers, psychologists, ethicists and other professionals from disciplines associated with medical ethics. As such, the SCHB functions as a multi-professional network with access to a range of specialist expertise and working groups. The principles to which the Scottish Council on Human Bioethics subscribe are set out in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights which was adopted and proclaimed by the UN General Assembly by resolution 217A(III) on 10 December 1948.