The reflects on their experience considering a move from New York City to Florida or Texas during 2021, during which they discovered a company named Oxitec that breeds genetically modified mosquitoes. This led to a broader contemplation of the implications of genetic engineering in the context of public health and ethical debates surrounding such technologies.
1. Personal Background and Migration Thoughts: In 2021, amid chaos in NYC, the author explored moving to Florida or Texas, states associated with freedom and low restrictions during the pandemic.
2. Discovery of Oxitec: In their research, the author learned about Oxitec, which had been approved by the EPA for the experimental release of genetically modified mosquitoes.
3. Moral Concerns: The author felt uncomfortable thinking that the places they wanted to escape to were testing grounds for GMO insects, questioning whether these states were actually traps set by larger entities.
4. Research on Alpha-Gal Syndrome: Recent studies have suggested genetically engineering ticks to spread a condition that causes an allergic reaction to red meat, framed as a moral enhancement. The authors of a paper published in the journal Bioethics argued that causing people to develop meat allergies is “morally obligatory."
5. Historical Context: The paper's arguments echoed ideas from previous years, notably from bioethicist S. Matthew Liao, who proposed similar concepts in 2016. This led to questions about possible covert efforts to push such agendas.
6. Tick Weaponization History: The piece delves into historical precedents, including efforts during the Cold War to weaponize ticks and diseases linked to ticks, drawing attention to the ongoing research and debate about health issues related to ticks.
7. Present-Day Implications: The author discusses the ongoing rise of alpha-gal syndrome in the United States, mirrored by increasing awareness and incidents of the condition. Cases of severe allergic reactions and potential fatalities highlight the alarming reality of such syndromes.
8. Genetic Engineering of Mosquitoes: The author reflects on the capability to release genetically engineered mosquitoes, discussing funding from foundations and technologies involved, such as gene drives, which could change ecosystems irrevocably.
9. Misinterpretations and Connections: There was a false assumption that Oxitec's mosquitoes could be linked to rising malaria cases; however, the disease is carried by a different mosquito species. Despite inaccuracies, the author asserts the need for scrutiny over massive public health interventions involving genetically altered organisms.
10. Societal Responses and Explanations: Media narratives often focus on climate change and wildlife populations as explanations for disease spikes, omitting discussions about the roles of genetic engineering or historical precedents.
11. Questions About Intentional Action: The author concludes by questioning whether any actions are being taken based on emerging bioethical considerations surrounding genetically engineered ticks and mosquitoes, raising alarms about the possible ramifications.
The exploration raises critical ethical inquiries about the intentions and implementation of genetic engineering technologies, especially concerning their influence on public health. The author connects historical endeavors with contemporary developments, fostering a discussion about the responsibilities of researchers, governments, and institutions in deploying such technologies without public consent or awareness.
https://brownstone.org/articles/we-could-we-should-we-must/