71. The study of genetics is today so far advanced that we shall soon be able to produce a kind of genetically "perfect superman

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问题     71. The study of genetics is today so far advanced that we shall soon be able to produce a kind of genetically "perfect superman", using techniques known as "genetic engineering". At first this may seem an attractive possibility, but when we consider it in detail, we find there are many problems involved.
    A distinction is usually made between "negative" and "positive" genetic engineering. In negative genetic engineering we try to eliminate harmful genes to produce genetically normal people. The aim is of course a desirable one; however, it does pose the problem of what a harmful gene is. Genes are not really either "good" or "bad". The gene which causes certain forms of anaemia, for example, can also protect against malaria. If we eliminate this gene we may get rid of anaemia, but we increase the risk of malaria.
    In positive genetic engineering we try to create better people by developing the so-called "good" genes. 72. But although this form of genetic engineering will give us greater control over mankind’s future, there are several reasons for caution. First there is the possibility of mistakes. While aceepting that geneticists are responsible people, we must also admit that things can be wrong, the result being the kind of monster we read about in horror stories. Secondly, there is the problem of deciding what makes a "better" person. We may feel, for example, that if genetic engineering can create more intelligent people, then this is a good thing. On the other hand, intelligence does not necessarily lead to happiness. Do we really want to create people who are intelligent, but perhaps unhappy?
    73. The basic question is whether or not we should interfere with human life. We can argue that much human progress (particularly in medicine ) involves interference with life. To some extent this is true; but we should not forget the terrible consequences genetic engineering can have. Consider for example the possibilities of genetic warfare, in which our enemies try to harm us using the techniques of genetic engineering ...

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答案根本问题是我们是否应当干预人类的生活。我们可以争辩说,许多人类的进步(特别是在医学方面)需要于预人类的生活。在某种程度上这是事实,但我们不应当忘记遗传工程可能导致的非常可怕的后果。

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