Biology Forums - Study Force

Two of the world’s premier geneticists, Craig Venter and Hamilton Smith have proposed a new approach to genetics. They are looking to create a simple microbe by mix and matching gene segments from previously known bugs and “drop them” into another bug and see if the new genetic makeup will bring the microbe to life.

Do you think this is ethical? Should this be allowed or stopped? It is mentioned in the article that there could be some benefit to this for example creating microbes one day that could be used to prevent pollution, kill other bugs that cause diseases like malaria, gonorrhea… there are however worse theories that the virus could escape the lab…then what?

Regardless, if giving life to new microbes is a possible option, should humans be trying to play God?

Article: http://www.bioethics.net/articles.php?viewCat=2&articleId=27

I see your concern sarah...

I think its a good idea to create a microbe but they definitely need more research before they create anything. They have to think the advantages and disadvantages and how it could effect the environment or people. If such issues are studied and researched well, I think its okay to create a simple microbe.

We still dont know everything about microbial life systems, and creating one by mix and matching genes could shed alot of light on the situation. I see no reason why creating bacteria is unethical. As long as its kept safe and controlled there is no issue.