GENETIC ENGINEERING VERSUS NATURAL SELECTION: A PHILOSOPHICAL INTERROGATION OF THE ARGUMENT BETWEEN THE TRAN-HUMANISTS AND BIO-CONSERVATIONISTS ON HUMAN SURVIVAL

Abstract

The aim of this essay is to evaluate the positions of bio-conservationists and trans-humanists on human survival. Survival has occupied the history of human development starting from the Greeco-Roman ages till this contemporary era. Darwinian trap has held humanity for decades waiting for evolution and natural selection while trans- humanism has come to destroy humanity. Arguments on survival have attracted the attention of biologists and philosophers over the years until recent discovery in genetic engineering. This has led to two broad stands among philosophers namely the bio-conservationists and trans-humanists. The Bio-conservationists advocates for caution, and restrain in applying technology to human enhancement. While the trans-humanists envision the use of technology to enhance human capabilities, improve the human condition and post-human society, ultimately transcend our biological limitations, far beyond those of current humans. It is fascinating and sometimes controversial field, blending science fiction with real-world technological advancements. Part of the objective of this work is to analyze the implications of living human survival to natural selection alone. We shall also interrogate the implications of the idea of enhancing human capabilities through technology. Our methodology is epistemological analysis, which offers the opportunity to interrogate the justificatory processes on natural selection and genetic engineering: Thus, leading to philosophical evaluations of such positions after which conclusion follows.