The topic of designer babies and their ethical implications has become increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. As genetic engineering advances, this subject is likely to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this challenging topic.
Analyzing the Task
Some people believe that genetic engineering and the creation of “designer babies” is an exciting development that should be pursued. Others think it raises too many ethical concerns and should be banned. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question asks you to discuss two opposing viewpoints on the topic of designer babies and genetic engineering. It’s crucial to address both perspectives and clearly state your own opinion. The task requires a balanced approach, critical thinking, and the ability to articulate complex ethical issues.
Model Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
The rapid advancement of genetic engineering has opened up the possibility of creating “designer babies,” sparking intense debate about its ethical implications. While some view this as an exciting scientific breakthrough, others argue that it crosses moral boundaries. In my opinion, while genetic engineering offers potential benefits, the ethical risks outweigh these advantages, and strict regulations should be implemented.
Proponents of designer babies argue that this technology could eliminate genetic diseases and enhance human capabilities. By selecting specific genetic traits, parents could potentially ensure their children are born free from hereditary conditions, reducing suffering and healthcare costs. Additionally, advocates suggest that cognitive and physical enhancements could lead to a more capable and productive society.
However, the ethical concerns surrounding this practice are numerous and significant. Firstly, there is the issue of creating a “genetic divide” between those who can afford such technologies and those who cannot, potentially exacerbating social inequalities. Secondly, the long-term consequences of manipulating the human genome are unknown, and unforeseen complications could arise in future generations. Thirdly, there are concerns about the psychological impact on children who are “designed,” potentially leading to increased pressure and reduced autonomy.
Furthermore, the ability to select specific traits raises questions about what constitutes a “desirable” genetic makeup. This could lead to a narrowing of genetic diversity and potentially reinforce harmful societal biases. There is also the slippery slope argument that once we begin altering genes for health reasons, it may be difficult to draw the line at enhancing non-medical traits.
In conclusion, while the potential to eradicate genetic diseases is appealing, the ethical risks associated with designer babies are too significant to ignore. Instead of pursuing this technology unchecked, I believe we should focus on other methods of improving human health and well-being that do not involve altering the fundamental essence of human reproduction and development. Strict international regulations should be put in place to limit genetic engineering to therapeutic uses only, ensuring that we do not cross ethical boundaries in our pursuit of scientific progress.
(Word count: 329)
Ethical Implications of Designer Babies
Model Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
Genetic engineering and the creation of “designer babies” is a controversial topic. Some people think it’s an exciting development, while others believe it raises too many ethical problems. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, supporters of designer babies say it could help eliminate genetic diseases. By choosing specific genes, parents might be able to make sure their children don’t have health problems that run in the family. This could reduce suffering and save money on healthcare. Some people also think it could make humans smarter or stronger.
On the other hand, there are many ethical concerns about this technology. One problem is that it might only be available to rich people, which could make society more unequal. Another issue is that we don’t know what might happen in the long term if we change human genes. It could have unexpected effects on future generations. There’s also a worry that designer babies might feel too much pressure to be perfect.
Another ethical problem is deciding what genes are “good” or “bad”. This could lead to less diversity in humans and might encourage prejudice. Some people worry that if we start changing genes to prevent diseases, we might not be able to stop people from changing other things too.
In my opinion, while eliminating genetic diseases sounds good, the risks of designer babies are too high. I think we should look for other ways to improve health that don’t involve changing human genes. There should be strict rules to make sure genetic engineering is only used for medical reasons, not for making “perfect” babies.
To conclude, the topic of designer babies is complex with both potential benefits and serious ethical concerns. I believe the risks are too great and we should be very careful about using this technology.
(Word count: 294)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
-
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, and a conclusion with the writer’s opinion.
-
Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language.
-
Coherence: Both essays use linking words to connect ideas, but the higher band essay does this more effectively.
-
Arguments: The Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and nuanced arguments, while the Band 6-7 essay covers the main points but with less depth.
-
Opinion: Both essays clearly state the writer’s opinion, which is crucial for this task type.
Vocabulary to Remember
-
Genetic engineering (noun) /dʒəˈnetɪk ˌendʒɪˈnɪərɪŋ/ – The manipulation of an organism’s genes using biotechnology.
-
Ethical implications (noun phrase) /ˈeθɪkəl ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃənz/ – The moral consequences or issues related to a particular action or decision.
-
Hereditary (adjective) /həˈredɪtəri/ – Passed down from parent to child through genes.
-
Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – To make a problem or situation worse.
-
Autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – The right or condition of self-government; freedom from external control or influence.
-
Slippery slope (noun phrase) /ˈslɪpəri sləʊp/ – The idea that a relatively small first step leads to a chain of related events resulting in a significant and often undesirable effect.
-
Eradicate (verb) /ɪˈrædɪkeɪt/ – To completely destroy or eliminate something.
-
Therapeutic (adjective) /ˌθerəˈpjuːtɪk/ – Relating to the treatment of disease or disorders by remedial agents or methods.
Conclusion
The Ethical Implications Of Designer Babies present a challenging but important topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments and using appropriate vocabulary, you can construct a well-reasoned essay that demonstrates your ability to discuss complex ethical issues. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the ethics of other biotechnologies or the role of genetics in healthcare. You can share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and further improvement.
