Should we edit the human germline?
You will write a paper analyzing whether or not the human germline should be edited using technology like CRISPR-Cas9. In your paper you should:
Give sufficient background for your audience (a good way to think about this is that you’re writing for a family member with no formal scientific training).
Frame the question and provide sufficient background for your reader to understand your thesis and arguments:
Define “germline” and explain why it is significant.
Distinguish germline editing from somatic editing.
Very briefly describe the technology (e.g. CRISPR) that allows genome editing.
Make your thesis clear.
Make your arguments supporting your thesis.
Address any counter-arguments you might expect against your position.
Wrap up with a conclusion.
There is no right or wrong answer; your paper will be graded on overall organization, quality of writing, comprehension of the issue, and the quality of your argument on the issue.
Your essay should be 1,500 words or more. You must cite at least 5 sources. You must provide in-text citations and a Works Cited page at the end. The in-text citations and references must be in the APA format (see the Library’s APA Citation and Style Guide).
The essay is worth 25 points.