What does Watson mean by the term “genetic injustice”?
The correct answer and explanation is :
James D. Watson, one of the co-discoverers of the DNA double helix, uses the term “genetic injustice” to refer to the ethical, social, and legal consequences that arise from the misuse or unequal access to genetic information. This concept highlights how genetic knowledge can be exploited to discriminate against individuals based on their genetic traits, particularly in areas such as employment, insurance, and healthcare. It also emphasizes the disparity in access to genetic advancements, where certain groups may benefit from genetic technologies while others are left behind due to economic or social barriers.
Explanation:
The concept of genetic injustice is particularly relevant in the modern era of genetic testing, gene editing, and personalized medicine. One major concern is genetic discrimination, where individuals may be denied jobs or insurance coverage based on their genetic predisposition to certain diseases. This is why policies such as the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) in the United States were implemented to prevent employers and insurance companies from using genetic information against individuals.
Another form of genetic injustice relates to healthcare inequality. Advanced genetic treatments, such as gene therapy and CRISPR-based gene editing, hold the potential to cure genetic disorders. However, these technologies are often expensive and accessible only to the wealthy, exacerbating social inequality. Those who cannot afford these treatments may suffer from preventable diseases, deepening the gap between the privileged and underprivileged.
Additionally, ethical concerns arise regarding how genetic data is collected and used. Without proper regulations, governments or corporations could misuse genetic information for surveillance, eugenics, or unethical scientific experimentation.
In summary, Watson’s term “genetic injustice” highlights the potential dangers of genetic discrimination, unequal access to genetic healthcare, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic information. Addressing these concerns requires strict regulations, ethical oversight, and efforts to ensure that genetic advancements benefit all of humanity equitably.