Genetica, diritti e giustizia. Nuove tecniche d' intervento genetico e riproduzione umana

The recent developments in genetics have made new methods of modification available that enable a hitherto inconceivable degree of control over man’s inner na-ture to be exercised. The suitability of the use of these methods and the manners in which they are used, especially in the framework of human reproduction, raise an ethical and moral question. This article starts from the liberal assumption that the only reason for restricting personal freedom, and thus the freedom to access these new methods, by imposing prohibitions and limitations is to prevent unacceptable harm. It then considers the pros and cons, both direct and indirect, that may derive from the use of these new methods, which could rely on the arguments that lead to the legislative regulation of the field. Lastly, it offers some opinions, based on a liberal-social democratic conception of jus-tice, about the directives that are intended to act as guidelines for the legislative regu-lation of access to new methods of genetic engineering.

Nicola Riva, Genetica, diritti e giustizia. Nuove tecniche d' intervento genetico e riproduzione umana in "SOCIOLOGIA DEL DIRITTO " 1/2004, pp , DOI: