CAJ #12: How does my topic connect to other fields/CAJs?

• Carola Ponjevic: Genetic engineering and enhancement 

Even though the foremost goal of PGD was to detect genetic defects, it has become a tool for enhancement. More couples now make use of this technique to choose their baby’s gender as well as its eye and hair color. It is, of course, considered extremely controversial and unethical because genetic engineering and enhancement is seen as the first step for creating real “Designer Babies”.

http://carolaamina.blogspot.co.at/

• Alexandra Perfler: Genetics 

This has probably everything to do with my CAJ. New developments and findings in genetics research made it possible to even develop reproductive procedures in the first place. And it hasn’t stopped there. Scientists are eager to develop more techniques to cure diseases during early embryonic stages.

http://peralexa.blogspot.co.at/

• Artur Shefer: Longevity and human immortality; Transhumanism 

PGD is believed to someday, in the not too distant future, be able to provide couples with the possibility to preselect traits such as longevity for their future child. Maybe with Aubrey’s findings, geneticists can finally figure out the genes that would make these traits possible.

http://arturshefer.blogspot.co.at/

• Katharina Pelich: Stem cells 

This is directly related to my CAJ as stem cells are derived from embryos that were created with in-vitro fertilization in order to help scientists figure out how to treat specific diseases, possibly grow organs etc.

http://kathyp92.blogspot.co.at/

• Katja Wallner: Eugenics 

A lot of people believe that PGD and other reproductive technologies will pave the way for eugenics, a term which is almost always associated with the Nazi time, to enhance the genetic material of human beings.

http://sparklyzombiecat.blogspot.co.at/