Genetic engineering and IQ of a child

We will consider and example that shows how the distinctions discussed above can be used in order to show that at least one genetic intervention that has been traditionally viewed as an enhancement is acceptable. Take the example of parents who wish to increase the IQ, or at least the potential IQ of their child,given that this wish is not in response to the child having an IQ that falls which places them in the malady category. This intervention unlike the others discussed does not appear to have a negative effect on the choices or conceptions of the good life available to child in question although this is not the view held by Schonfeld, however her claims with respect to this will be answered shortly. This is because regardless of the life plan that the child decides is appropriate for themselves it seems as if it will go better if they have a higher level of intelligence, as they will be better equipped to deal with the challenges of life and better able to consider the choices available to them with regards their development of a life plan. Some may argue that this is incorrect, and this is the position taken by Schonfeld. She uses two examples to illustrate her point, namely increased quickness and dexterity and more importantly for the discussion her increased intelligence. Schonfeld suggests that while on the surface these enhancements would appear to be “at least permissible according to our fiduciary role, if not specifically required by it” this is not the case. The first issue that Schonfeld raises is ‘what happens if Sarah does not like soccer.” He says that this may be detrimental to Sarah, because even though she doesn’t like soccer, her parents have invested time and money in her having certain skills and therefore there will be more pressure on her that on a non-enhanced child to utilize those skills to their best advantage. As well as this the parents disappointment with her not fulfilling the expectations they had for her may have a detrimental effect on family life, leading to an unhappy environment in which to grow and mature.