Despite the Nazi horrors, in 1953 the new eugenics was founded, when Watson and
Crick postulated the double helix of DNA as the basis of chemical heredity. In
1961, scientists have deciphered the genetic code of DNA, laying the groundwork
for code manipulation and the potential building of new life forms. After thirty
years from the discovery of the DNA structure, the experimenters began to carry
out the first clinical studies of human somatic cell therapy.
The practice of prenatal genetic tests identifies genes or unwanted genetic
markers. Parents can choose to continue pregnancy or give up the fetus. Once the
preimplantation genetic diagnosis occurs, potential parents can choose to use in
vitro fertilization and then test early embryonic cells to identify embryos with
genes they prefer or avoid. Because of concerns about eugenics, genetic
counseling is based on a "non-directive" policy to ensure respect for
reproductive autonomy. The argument for this counseling service is that we
should balance parental autonomy with child's autonomy in the future.
Specialists have not yet given a clear answer to the question of whether these
practices should be considered eugenic practices, or if they are moral
practices.
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.28777.95849