If Gene Splicing Became Legal And Was Available Today, Would You Get Spliced?

[Dannyalcatraz]

Addendum: The benefits of being spliced would be non-hereditary.

Besides, with this addendum, it would seem pointless to me.

What does it matter if I can splice myself to "superhumanity" if my kids are going to be born with my unspliced, unsuper original genes?

Why be Dorsai if my kids would be Dorks?

 

[Umbran]

Why be Dorsai if my kids would be Dorks?

Dude, kids aren't copies of their parents. It isn't like your kids are guaranteed to be as good as you (or as bad, or just like you) in even the normal ways. The logic there generalizes to, "Why be anything if my kids aren't going to be that same thing?"


Plus, by the setup, your kids can be "spliced" for themselves, separate from you. They can be their own superselves, separate from your choices.

 

[The_Warlock]

Simple.

1) Turn off the genes associated with aging they've already found.

2) Splice in tissue and limb regeneration found in other species.

3) Ability to generate an electric shock in self defense.


In the end, I'd prefer changes that would result in retention of basic humanity, enhance long term survivability, and allow the lifespan to see where the species eventually goes.

 

[Villano]

I would totally splice myself with a gorilla. Imagine the awesomeness!

 

[Ranger REG]

Lets see... I'll slice myself with the internet for information storage compasity and cerebral processing power.

Unfortunately, you forgot to splice in a firewall, so your storage capacity will be filled with spamming.

 

[Ranger REG]

I would totally splice myself with a gorilla. Imagine the awesomeness!

You wouldn't have to wear clothes ... ever?

 

[Dannyalcatraz]

Dude, kids aren't copies of their parents.

I know, but by stating that the spliced genes can't be passed on, there is no real improvement in the species by this process.

Its no different, then, than getting implants or plastic surgery- the "you" that you're putting forth to the world is somehow dishonest.*

Plus, by the setup, your kids can be "spliced" for themselves, separate from you.

Yes, but that implies additional procedures, and thus, additional costs.

If, OTOH, my new genes for height, strength, speed, etc. could be (not automatically would be) passed on, that's a bargain I'd go for.



* I'm only talking about elective surgeries. Those people getting reconstructive surgery or for other medically necessary purposes I have no issues with.

 

[Relique du Madde]

You'd probably have to pay extra to have them be hereditary (stupid scam artist doctors).

 

[Duskblade]

I wouldn't want to be spliced. I'm happy with the way I am.

 

[Aeson]

Simple.

1) Turn off the genes associated with aging they've already found.

2) Splice in tissue and limb regeneration found in other species.

3) Ability to generate an electric shock in self defense.


In the end, I'd prefer changes that would result in retention of basic humanity, enhance long term survivability, and allow the lifespan to see where the species eventually goes.

I like this answer.