Who will refereethe genetic revolution?

The announcement of the new stem cell factory in Galway brings us closer to the reality of genetic revolution.

We have reached a critical point in our history. We have become capable of manipulating genes. We can now, with all the right ingredients, concoct genetic soup.

As the genetic links become clearer, we will be able to foresee who will be prone to alcoholism, to cancer, even to obesity. We are now experimentally treating diseases like cystic fibrosis and muscular dystrophy with gene therapy. When we succeed, what next? At what price? Imagine cloned versions of our politicians? Our worst nightmare. The genetic revolution will move forward regardless of our readiness, or where humanity is heading. This raises both moral and practical questions, along with deeper consequences for the individual and society.