To manipulate a human’s DNA sequence genetically is to change the genome of an individual — or an entire species. Today and in the future, genetic manipulation is motivated not only by an interest in health but also by political, economic, and cultural beliefs and goals. It will lead to less genetic diversity among humans — unless political community constructs a human right of “pre-personal life” not to be genetically engineered. Might a human embryo be culturally understood as possessing a human right to be free of genetic manipulation, or free at least from genetic enhancement where enhancement can be distinguished from genetic therapy? I show that human nature, as it results from genetic manipulation, is not natural but rather a cultural choice because the legal and moral regulation of genetic enhancement finds no guidelines in nature. Genetic modification is always a political act.
