Honors College Theses
Publication Date
2024
Major
Philosophy (B.A.)
Document Type and Release Option
Thesis (open access)
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Paul Tubig
Abstract
Mary Shelley’s famous novel, Frankenstein, is often hailed as the first true science fiction novel. In my thesis, I use the premonitive lens towards creation of life provided in Frankenstein to evaluate the morality of genetic modification of children. CRISPR-Cas9 is quickly emerging as the most important development in reprogenetic technology of our time, and many argue for its merits as a method of designing our children. I argue against this trend of “designer babies,” specifically raising questions about the soundness of modifying non-disease traits in future children and encouraging a more cautious attitude in both the scientific and philosophical communities.
Thesis Summary
Mary Shelley’s famous novel, Frankenstein, is often hailed as the first true science fiction novel. In my thesis, I use the premonitive lens towards creation of life provided in Frankenstein to evaluate the morality of genetic modification of children. CRISPR-Cas9 is quickly emerging as the most important development in reprogenetic technology of our time, and many argue for its merits as a method of designing our children. I argue against this trend of “designer babies,” specifically raising questions about the soundness of modifying non-disease traits in future children and encouraging a more cautious attitude in both the scientific and philosophical communities.
Recommended Citation
Ambrose, Allison M., "A More Modern Prometheus: What Frankenstein Tells Us About Genetic Modification" (2024). Honors College Theses. 949.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/honors-theses/949
