Many possible applications of scientific knowledge raise ethical issues for some people.Which application, however, would be rejected by all responsible scientists?
A) Selecting the sex of one's children
B) Using stem cells as part of medical treatments
C) Modifying the human genome
D) Using scientific knowledge to dictate how the world ought to be
E) Moving genes from one organism to another

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

All responsible scientists would reject using scientific knowledge to dictate how the world ought to be. Science is a tool for understanding and describing the natural world, not for imposing moral or political beliefs on individuals or society. Scientists should remain objective and impartial in their work, and avoid becoming advocates or activists for particular causes or ideologies. Therefore, using scientific knowledge to dictate how the world ought to be is not a legitimate application of science, and all responsible scientists would recognize this.

Many Possible Applications of Scientific Knowledge Raise Ethical Issues for Some