Genetic Engineering between Promises and Dilemmas: A Philosophical Debate?

Abstract

Human genetic engineering can be considered as one of the great transformations brought about by the discoveries of genetics. The possibility of modifying the human genome or carrying out investigations and changes in the hereditary genetic heritage, reveals, simultaneously, promises and dilemmas that go beyond private life, affecting Human Rights. So, based on conflicts of interest related to genetic manipulation techniques, philosophy was sought, especially with the theoretical contribution of Michael Sandel, through a brief bibliographic review, the justifications about support or opposition in proceeding with engineering. Genetics, aiming to understand the positions and interests, to find the best ethical answer to this ambivalence.