A company called Genomic Prediction says it’s developed a test to screen human embryos created through in vitro fertilization. Last month they began talks with fertility clinics about making it available to customers. The goal is to screen out babies with genes indicating a risk of certain diseases. But it doesn’t end there. They also have the ability to identify embryos that are more likely to have a low intelligence, as well as those more likely to excel in this area. Embryos with a “mental disability” would be a natural area to target, which means individuals with Down syndrome, who so richly contribute to society, would be a thing of the past. Designer babies certainly comes to mind. The firm’s co-founder said, “If we don’t do it, some other company will.”
Leave a Reply