As our understanding of genetic technology increases, so does the number of ethical questions about its use. One of the most controversial of these questions is: How should we use genetic testing technology? This question has sparked heated debate, most notably by disability rights groups, who claim that allowing pre-natal genetic testing encourages the marginalization of people living with disabilities and furthers the negative stereotype. Opponents argue that parents should be free to get the testing and decide for themselves. The discussion continues in our government and in the media.
Disability rights advocates argue that by allowing such testing (and allowing expecting mothers to abort fetuses that will be disabled) the medical community is sending a hurtful message to people with disabilities – that there lives are not worth living. Some of these groups feel that such testing should be abolished.
Opponents of this view argue that parents in this country have the right to abort children for whatever reason they wish, or no reason at all – thus, there should not be a higher standard for parents who want to abort a fetus that will be disabled.
In this evening’s discussion, we heard from a genetic counselor, a physician who sits on a genetics committee, a physician who works with disabled patients, a professor who studies disability, and a philosopher. Each of these individuals represents a field that can inform this discussion.
How should we use genetic technology? What kind of limits should be placed on it? This science has great potential, but directing its use is not an easy task. How do you weigh in on this debate, and why? We’d love to hear from you.
Parth,
IHC Facilitator
