ETHICAL IMPLICATIONS OF GENETIC ENGINEERING AND BIOENGINEERING ON HUMAN

IDENTITY

Here are some of the biotechnological advancements from the decade :

● Quantum Microscope: A quantum microscope uses the principles of quantum mechanics

to create high-resolution images of biological samples. This technology has the potential
to revolutionize fields like medicine, materials science, and biology.

● Gene Editing: For the first time, researchers have been able to prove that when specific
human endogenous retroviruses or HERVs which are found throughout our genome are
activated, it severely impairs brain development. With the help of biotechnologies,
scientists were able to have a better understanding of HERV processes and functions.
.DNA Splicing Enzymes: Scientists have discovered and engineered enzymes that can
precisely edit DNA sequences, enabling gene therapy and gene editing technologies like
CRISPR-Cas9.
. CRISPR Gene Editing: The CRISPR-Cas9 tool has revolutionized gene editing,
enabling precise modifications to the genome. This technology has vast potential for
treating genetic diseases, improving crop yields, and more.

● Gene Sequencing: Next-generation sequencing

(NGS) technologies have made it possible to sequence entire genomes quickly and
affordably. This has led to a better understanding of genetic variations and their role in
diseases.
.Testing and Tracing for COVID-19: Jeremy Edwards, director of the Computational
Genomics and Technology (CGaT) Laboratory at The University of New Mexico, and his
other colleagues developed a chip that makes genome sequencing for viruses like
COVID-19 much easier and faster.

● Agriculture and Climate: Biotechnology has helped develop crops that can thrive in
challenging environmental conditions, such as drought or extreme temperatures. This is
crucial for food security and sustainable agriculture.

● Environmental DNA (eDNA): eDNA is genetic material found in environmental samples

like water or soil. Analyzing eDNA helps scientists monitor biodiversity, track invasive
species, and understand ecosystem dynamics.

● Synthetic Biology: Synthetic biology involves designing and constructing new biological
systems or modifying existing ones to produce novel functions. This field has led to
breakthroughs in biofuels, biosensors, and bioproducts.
.Biosensors: Biosensors are devices that detect and measure biological molecules or
signals. They have numerous applications, including medical diagnosis, environmental
monitoring, and food safety testing.
 ● Personalized Medicine: Advances in genomics and biotechnology have enabled
personalized medicine, where treatments are tailored to an individual's specific genetic
profile.

● Regenerative Medicine: Biotechnology has led to significant progress in regenerative

medicine, which focuses on repairing or replacing damaged tissues and organs.
.Stem Cell Research: Researchers have made significant progress in understanding and
harnessing the potential of stem cells, which can differentiate into various cell types, for
regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.
.4D printing and Tissue Engineering: 4D materials, when exposed to certain
environments, change their shape. Recently available materials are of low compatibility
with cells. However, the research team created new 4D materials based on gelatin-like
hydrogels that alternate shape in reaction to water and are cell-compatible and
recyclable, making them ideal choices for enhanced tissue engineering.

● Targeted Cancer Therapies: Biotechnologists have developed innovative treatments that

specifically target cancer cells, reducing harm to healthy cells, such as
immunotherapies, gene therapies, and nanoparticle-based drug delivery.
.Nanoparticle-based Drug Delivery:
Biotechnologists have developed nanoparticles that can target specific cells or tissues,
reducing side effects and improving drug efficacy.
.Immunotherapy: Researchers have made significant progress in harnessing the
immune system to fight cancer and other diseases, with breakthroughs in checkpoint
inhibitors, CAR-T cell therapy, and cancer vaccines.
. Gene Therapy: Scientists have developed effective gene therapies to treat genetic
disorders, such as Luxturna for inherited blindness and Zolgensma for spinal muscular
atrophy.

● 3D Visualization and Augmented Reality for Surgery_: Advances in imaging and

visualization technologies have enabled surgeons to use 3D models and augmented
reality to plan and perform complex surgeries with greater precision and accuracy.

Although I would so much like to get into what is 4D let's get to the real part of this paper.

The question is what truely defines the identity of man.

Human identity is a multifaceted concept that has been explored by philosophers, psychologists,
sociologists, and anthropologists.
There is the
1. Biological: Human identity is rooted in our biology, including our genetic makeup, physical
characteristics, and cognitive abilities.
2. Psychological: Our thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and experiences shape our sense of self and
identity.

3. Social: Human identity is influenced by our relationships, culture, language, and social
context.

4. Cultural: Our identity is shaped by the values, beliefs, and practices of our cultural
background.

5. Personal: Individual experiences, choices, and values contribute to our unique identity.

6. Spiritual/Religious: Beliefs and connections to something greater than ourselves can define
our identity.

7. Existential: Our identity is also influenced by our awareness of our own mortality and the
search for meaning and purpose.

Our understanding of what it means to be human cannot be encompassed by a single list and
the definition of humanity is constantly evolving.
Therefore on this stance, if humanity is an all encompassing dynamism of growth then what
could it change into in a decade, century or millennium. How much can the idea of humanity
change in respect to what is attainable now.

The epitome of this study will be redefining humanhood: Many believe the center of humanity is
it biological aspect and with advances in technology, man can and will be able to edit the human
makeup to his or her satisfaction. Man will have all the means to create what he or she must
see as and eventually claim to be “perfect man”. In respect this we will discuss

Identity and autonomy: Biotechnology can alter our physical and cognitive abilities, potentially
changing our sense of self and autonomy.

Enhancement and inequality: Access to biotechnology enhancements may exacerbate existing

social inequalities, creating new forms of privilege and disadvantage. This create a new type of
social class of perfect man and higher animals( my analogy)

Human-machine fusion: Integrating technology into our bodies and minds can blur the lines
between human and machine, challenging traditional notions of human identity. Thus, one will
not know what has been lost to gain, maybe to lose feeling and attachment to gain high level
logical and adaptive cognitive ability.

Life extension and mortality: Biotechnology can potentially extend human lifespan, raising
questions about the meaning and purpose of life, as well as our understanding of mortality.
Genetic determinism: The emphasis on genetic factors in biotechnology can perpetuate
deterministic views of human identity, overlooking environmental and social influences.

Cultural and religious implications: Biotechnology advancements can conflict with cultural and
religious beliefs about human creation, identity, and the natural order.

Psychological impact: Biotechnology can alter our relationship with our bodies, minds, and each
other, potentially leading to new forms of anxiety, identity crises, and social disconnection.

Evolutionary implications: Biotechnology can potentially alter the human gene pool, raising
questions about the future of human evolution and our place in the natural world.

Existential questions: Biotechnology advancements can prompt fundamental questions about

human existence, purpose, and our place in the universe.

In all I believe these are the areas biotechnology will affect the identity of man in time to come.
We should also take note of upcoming technology in neuroscience such as

Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs): BCIs can already read and write neural signals, allowing
people to control devices with their minds. Advancements in BCIs could enable the transfer of
memories and knowledge.

Neuroplasticity: Our brains' ability to reorganize and adapt throughout life suggests that new
memories and knowledge can be integrated into existing neural networks.

Neural Decoding: Scientists can already decode neural activity associated with specific
memories and skills. This understanding could be used to transfer memories and knowledge.

Neuroscience Advances: Discoveries in neuroscience, such as the identification of specific brain

regions and neural pathways involved in memory and learning, provide a foundation for
developing memory and knowledge transfer technologies.

Neuroprosthetics: Neuroprosthetic devices can already restore or enhance cognitive functions in

individuals with neurological disorders. These advancements could be adapted for memory and
knowledge transfer.

With neurotechnology, and artificial intelligence, the possibility of memory and knowledge
transfer to brains becoming increasingly likely although significant technical and ethical
challenges remain, the likelihood of memory and knowledge transfer to brains will become
possible. However, it's crucial to address concerns around privacy, identity, and the potential
consequences of altering human cognition.
Things that could be dissuced would center around Difference between knowledge and
experience in cultural, social and personal aspects of human identity, What truely is the
difference between reality and apparent reality in relations to what one has experienced and
what one thinks to have experienced and many more.