Question detail
A new technology allows doctors to screen embryos for a range of inherited disorders before implantation. Discuss one economic and one ethical consideration that might influence whether parents choose to use this screening.
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At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Reproduction
Question
A new technology allows doctors to screen embryos for a range of inherited disorders before implantation. Discuss one economic and one ethical consideration that might influence whether parents choose to use this screening.
Answer
Economically, embryo screening can reduce the long‑term costs of caring for a child with a serious inherited disorder, but the upfront cost of the screening itself may be prohibitive for some families. Ethically, parents may face the dilemma of selecting embryos based on genetic traits, which raises concerns about ‘designer babies’ and the potential for discrimination against those with certain genetic conditions.
Explanation
The answer demonstrates understanding of both economic (costs and benefits) and ethical (selection and discrimination) issues relevant to embryo screening, directly addressing the learning objective.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Ethical Implications
Students often focus solely on the benefits of embryo screening, neglecting the ethical concerns it raises, such as potential discrimination or the value of life.
Encourage students to consider both the advantages and ethical dilemmas of embryo screening, discussing potential societal impacts and moral considerations.
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