Abstract

A central debate in bioethics is whether parents should try to influence the genetic basis of their children’s traits. We argue that the case for using mate selection, embryo selection, and other interventions to enhance heritable traits like intelligence is strengthened by the fact that they seem to have positive network effects. These network effects include increased cooperation in collective action problems, which contributes to social trust and prosperity. We begin with an overview of evidence for these claims, and then argue that if individual welfare is largely a function of group traits, parents should try to preserve or enhance cognitive traits that have positive network effects.

Highlights

  • Many traits that we value are the product of evolution by natural and sexual selection

  • We argue that standard considerations in favor of genetic enhancement are strengthened by these network effects

  • Similar results were reported in a study of Chilean high school students: “We find that higher cognitive ability–especially mathematical ability–is predictive of much lower levels of smallstakes risk aversion.” (Benjamin et al, 2013)

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Summary

Introduction

Many traits that we value are the product of evolution by natural and sexual selection. Evolution is a blind process that causes heritable traits that increase fitness to proliferate. It does not necessarily favor traits—or levels of a trait—that are optimal from the perspective of our well-being or the long-term survival of our species (Powell and Buchanan, 2011). Empathy, and creativity can lead us to produce lasting achievements that we value, ranging from great works of art and scientific discovery to meaningful relationships. Some of these traits predict cooperation at a group level. We argue that standard considerations in favor of genetic enhancement are strengthened by these network effects. we argue that since we cannot count on either uncoordinated individual choice or centralized state power to produce patterns in which average abilities are raised, we should explore the conditions under which norms are likely to emerge that direct us to make socially beneficial reproductive choices

How Group Traits Affect Individual Welfare
Moral Reasons for Cognitive Enhancement
Family Policy
Religious Belief
Community Size
Information
Conclusion

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