Human cloning is a controversial topic. It has created a stir within the scientific and religious circles as people try to come to terms with the fact that modern science can create human beings in laboratories. While there are those that are for human cloning because of the advantages it presents, others are against it owing to the disadvantages it comes with. Here are some pro and cons of human cloning.
Defective Genes
Hereditary diseases are a cause of concern. Many of these diseases are incurable, and since they often originate from defective genes, human cloning provides a solution. Scientific research shows that human genes can be edited during the cloning process. Some of them can be enhanced to strengthen the body against an array of life-threatening ailments.
Reproductive options
People who are not able to have children because of sterility problems can opt for test tube reproductive techniques. Human cloning is considered to be another option with an exciting twist. This means that the process allows you to determine the sex you want for your baby. You also get to choose specific genes for your baby – meaning that having a baby with a higher IQ command and a stronger immune system is a matter that you can decide on instead of leaving it all chance.
Humanitarian benefits
Imagine having human beings who can work under harsh conditions for the benefit of others. This could be people with the ability to explore ocean floors in search of curative medicines or people who can fight fires without getting burned. It’s believed that with time, human cloning will pave the way for the emergence of superhumans whose physical and intellectual abilities may have a positive impact on the entire world.
Immortality
Human cloning has got people thinking more and more about attaining immortality. By cloning a person’s brain cells without losing his or her conscience and memory, people will soon be able to have their brains transferred to younger and healthier bodies. Since a person is mainly made of his or her life experiences, it means that people will be able to buy their way into the list of the immortals.
Cons:
Cloned humans are likely to age faster especially in the initial stages of the technology. This might change the social order of things since cloned human may be granted special privileges. They will, for example, be granted a chance to attend school at an early age and have their drivers’ licenses early as well. Cloned humans with high intellectual abilities may also affect the current learning system, and all these may bring about social unrest. Reduced sense of individuality and social divisions are likely to arise in ways that may make life more complicated.
It will reduce the value that’s attached to human life and eradicate religious beliefs. Owing to these advantages, some experts feel that human cloning should be encouraged under strict regulations. In the same breathe; there are those who feel that it should be vigorously explored if the world is to survive global warming and other imminent challenges that are likely to lower the human population.
