Gattaca

Gattaca

Gattaca and Genetic Modification: The Possible Effects on Our Society     |
In the 1997 film GATTACA, Andrew Niccol shows us the possible future of genetic

engineering. The film looks at the effect that this science could have on a society in which genetically

inferior beings are discriminated against, based on what they are genetically made of. It deals with the

idea of mastering the human gene through genetic manipulation, in an attempt to improve the problems

society faces involving human nature. Today the field of bioengineering is one of quickest growing

areas in science. Genetic engineering is defined by Merriam Webster (2011) as the “group of applied

techniques of genetics and biotechnology used to cut up and join together genetic material and

especially DNA from one or more species of organism and to introduce the result into an organism in

order to change one or more of its characteristics”.

At the start of the film, we are presented with the protagonist Vincent, who was born without

genetic manipulation. When he was born a blood sample was drawn to analyze his DNA, which

showed he had: “neurological condition: 60% probability, manic depression: 42% probability, attention

deficit disorder: 89% probability, heart disorder: 99% probability. Early fatal potential. Life

expectancy: 30.2 years.” From the time he was born, all possible health problems had been identified,

and a life expectancy calculated.

Could you imagine the impact this technology would have if it were available to us today?
Life expectancy would increase greatly, since the technology would give us the ability to analyze all of

our possible health complications. Then we could use preventative practices and medicine to reduce our

health risks. On the other hand, it would be a stressful and scary thing, to find out all your health risks

or your child's health risks at birth, and to find out you only have a 20 year...