Thursday, March 12, 2009
Genetic Darwinism?
I do not believe that insurance companies should be able to know your genetic information. I think that it should stay private and it is definitely your right to keep your genes to yourself! We may already be subject to medical exams, but what is the point in insurance companies having our genetic information? I feel that if insurance companies had our genetic information they would be essentially be playing a huge role in our society. The companies are controlling what genes gets past on to the next generation. Those that do not get insurance are more likely do die because they will not be able to pay for their medical bill by themselves. Those that do have medical insurance will most likely live longer because they are able to afford the medical care that they need. The insurance companies would be acting as filters for future generations. I don't doubt for one second that the insurance companies would be discriminating against those of us who are predisposed to genetic problems. An insurance company could easily raise the amount you pay for insurance, or they could give those of us who are not predisposed to diseases "discounts," which again would be discriminating against those who are genetically predisposed.
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Great comments! I didn't really think about how the discrimination could lead to eliminating genes in our society, but I too think it would lead to that extreme. Insurance companies are not the ones that need our genetic info. It would be helpful if us and our doctors had the information, as long as it was held in doctor-patient confidence. Then this vital information could lead to helping with preventive measures as well as possibly help find cures.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your comments of how there would be discrimination. That is what I was trying to say with we cannot help what genetics we are given. Many companies would argue that they wouldn't, but why leave it to chance?! I like your thoughts!
ReplyDeleteThere would definitely be discrimination. How can a company decide how important your life is? If we have a certain gene that may or may not affect us one day, does that mean we just shouldn't be protected at all with insurance?
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