I think the reason people are dealing with science less well now than 50 years ago is that it has become so complicated.
James D. WatsonRead
No one may have the guts to say this, but if we could make better human beings by knowing how to add genes, why shouldn't we?
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote challenges the ethical boundaries of genetic modification for human improvement.
James D. Watson's quote invites us to consider the implications of genetic engineering in humans. It suggests that if we possess the capability to enhance human traits through genetic modification, we should not shy away from exploring this technology, despite the moral dilemmas it may pose. The underlying question concerns the responsibility of scientists and society towards the advancement of human beings through science, provoking a discussion about ethics, progress, and the future of humanity.
Themes
GeneticsEthical DilemmasHuman EnhancementScienceProgress
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the future of medicine and ethics, this quote can provoke thought on genetic engineering.
More from James D. Watson
All quotes βPolls consistently show that the majority of Americans favour research using embryonic stem cells and yet politicians continue to pander to the outspoken religious minority that is hampering efforts to develop this potentially valuable technology.
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DNA was my only gold rush. I regarded DNA as worth a gold rush.
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Science has always been my preoccupation and when you think a breakthrough is possible, it is terribly exciting.
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If you go into science, I think you better go in with a dream that maybe you, too, will get a Nobel Prize. It's not that I went in and I thought I was very bright and I was going to get one, but I'll confess, you know, I knew what it was.
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Take young researchers, put them together in virtual seclusion, give them an unprecedented degree of freedom and turn up the pressure by fostering competitiveness.
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