Final answer:
There is a connection between eugenics and genetic engineering, such as CRISPR, that lies in their shared potential to alter human genetics. The ethical line is often debated, but many agree it should be drawn at non-medical enhancements. Careful consideration of benefits and harms is needed, underpinned by robust regulations and informed public discussion.
Step-by-step explanation:
There is indeed a connection between eugenics and genetic engineering techniques such as CRISPR. The practice of eugenics involves improving the genetic quality of the human population, typically by promoting reproduction of people with desired traits and reducing reproduction of people with less-desired traits. Genetic engineering, and particularly CRISPR technology, has the potential to directly modify the genes of an organism, including humans. While genetic engineering can be used for preventing hereditary diseases, it can also be used for non-medical enhancements, which blurs the ethical lines and raises concerns similar to those associated with eugenics.
When considering how far to take these technologies, one could argue that the line should be drawn where genetic intervention stops being therapeutic and becomes enhancement for non-medical reasons—that is, enhancing traits such as attractiveness, strength, or intelligence. It is also important to differentiate between somatic cell interventions, which do not affect future generations, and germ-line interventions, which can potentially change the human gene pool and affect biodiversity. Hence, the ethical implications are significant, and there is a need for robust regulatory frameworks and informed public discourse to navigate these issues.
Overall, while the potential to improve human health and wellbeing through genetic engineering is enormous, the risk of reviving eugenics-related discrimination and social inequality is a considerable concern. The utilitarian perspective stresses weighing the potential benefits and harms to ensure the technology's responsible use, and many governmental and scientific entities have implemented guidelines on the technology's applications.