We may hope that genetic changes are intended to enhance life on our planet. But there are reasons for concern. For example, consideration has already been given to genetic alterations for the purpose of developing new biological weapons. The exploitation of other life forms for purposes of military security or economic gain should call forth careful, moral scrutiny. It is with ethical concerns like these in mind that we state the following Christian principles for genetic interventions.
Christian love requires that trust be maintained in human relationships.
The protection of confidentiality is essential to such trust. In order to safeguard personal privacy and protect against unfair discrimination, information about a person's genetic constitution should be kept confidential unless the person elects to share the knowledge with others. Honoring God's Image . For this reason the primary purpose of human genetic intervention should be the treatment or prevention of disease and the alleviation of pain and suffering. Because of the tendencies of sinful human nature, the possibility of abuse, and unknown biological risks, attempts to modify physical or mental characteristics with genetic interventions for healthy persons who are free of genetic disorders should be approached with great caution.