Conclusions About Genetic Editing
Due to the fact that there were no guidelines on this topic, I researched other controversial topics surrounding embryos. Using their moral and ethical guidelines, I was able to reach a conclusion about the morality of genetically editing human embryos.
01
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Embryos are seen as human life, and IVF creates many, hoping for one to successfully implant in the uterine lining. Sometimes many embryos are attached, so more than the desired amount are carried to term, which may lead some to perform a selective abortion. Most embryos that do not attach will perish, be thrown away, or be frozen for experimentation. Due to these reasons, the Church rejects the process of IVF on moral grounds, and she also rejects the disregard for human life that comes as a result of IVF.
02
Embryonic Stem Cell Research
The Catholic Church supports the idea of adult stem cell research but strongly rejects the idea of embryonic stem cell research. Beyond the fact that the Church finds IVF immoral, embryonic stem cell research intentionally destroys the embryo. While this research may save lives in the future, it still harms life in the embryos used as test subjects. As the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops says "We must respect life at all times, especially when our goal is to save lives" (USCCB).
03
Genetic Editing
Since the Catholic Church does not allow for the intentional death of embryos, genetic editing experiments can be seen as not morally permissible. While it is currently not morally permissible, this technology could potentially be morally justified in the Catholic Church. While this technology could be seen as helpful, it currently does not respect the integrity of the human person and uses the IVF process. Dr. Marilyn Coors ultimately concluded that if the process of IVF is not used, which damages the integrity of the person, genetic editing could be seen as morally acceptable by the Catholic faith.
04
Overall
The Church's well-developed moral theology and consistent teaching on issues regarding human life allow us to determine that with its current process, CRISPR technology and genetic editing are not morally permissible. Through the Church's teaching on IVF, embryonic stem cell research, and the principle of the double effect, I was able to reach this conclusion, as none of them are seen as permissible. However, this technology may later become permissible is the moral violations can be overcome through other scientific processes.
