The big picture

With complicated issues, we can end up discussing a single aspect or example. But our thoughts on the small details are guided by big questions like these.

• Humans share many genes with non-humans; for example, over 98% of our genes are identical to those of a chimpanzee. Yet many people see humans as essentially different from any other life form. What is special or unique about being human?
• There are different ways of understanding the world, including ethical, scientific, cultural and spiritual viewpoints. What sorts of values and beliefs are important when thinking about the transfer of human genes? Who should make the decisions?
• Human genes can be transferred into different organisms, and for different reasons. What factors should we think about when deciding if a transfer of genes is acceptable?

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