The End of Evolution
The Transition to Human Guided Development. Feb.29/08 We are swiftly approaching the end of evolution as we know it in regards to human development. While that may sound somewhat grandiose and pretentious; nevertheless it is still very likely; if not certain. |
Evolution has guided human development throughout the history of the species. This was augmented by human behaviour and social activity which of course also strongly affect our development.
But the days of being at the whim of random mutations are almost over. The end of ‘natural’ evolution is upon us; and we are about to undergo the transition to human guided development.
This is due, of course, to technological advances resulting in greater and greater human understanding and control over genetics. Look at the incredibly rapid advance of knowledge in the field. In 1953, Watson and Crick discovered the structure of DNA. 50 years later, the entire human genetic code was mapped. Currently, scientists all over the world are working on manipulating our genetic code – human genetic engineering.
It won’t be long before gene therapies are commonplace. It will start with treatments that only effect the individual – but really, how long can it be before genetic engineering is done that can be passed on to one’s children?
In the not too distant future, people will likely be a) manipulating the genetic makeup of their own offspring and b) using genetic engineering to permanently rid humanity of gene related diseases. Sickle cell anemia, for example, and other problems that result from genetic anomalies do a lot of harm, and not much argument is required to use technology to permanently rid us of these defects.
From there, its not a huge step to making improvements. From fighting ageing; to strengthening the immune system, to increasing strength and endurance, and whatever else one could think of - once enough is understood about our genetic code, these types of modifications will not be difficult.
With the ability to engineer our own genetics, we reach the end of natural evolution and the beginning of an age where we control our own genetic destiny.
Of course there are caveats to this. Firstly, there is no doubt that genetic treatments will initially effect only people in the 'first' world, leaving the vast majority of people outside of this. However; the chances are that eventually the progress of technology will end up improving the lot of all humans. It seems like a big stretch now; but remember how new high tech really is...even 'common' technology like electricity has only really been used for around 125 years. So what will things be like in 500, 5000, or 50,000 years? Its very doubtful that the world will still have an extreme ‘have-not’ population that will not benefit from common medical technologies.
Without a doubt the greatest caveat is whether the progress and dissemination of technology will be seriously affected by wars, plague, or something equally catastrophic on a species level. One of the many ‘doomsday’ scenarios of fiction or something totally unexpected could rear its ugly head; and for a time at least, return us to being at the whim of nature. If something actually destroys us, then of course the point is moot!
We also need to acknowledge that a catastrophe of the scale mentioned above could also result from the very genetic engineering being discussed here. It is not hard to imagine a ‘mistake’ involving unforeseen consequences to our genome that could endanger our survival as a species. Not to mention possibly catastrophic results from engineered bacteria or viruses.
The end of evolution as mentioned here relies on the continued advancement, use and dissemination of genetic technologies. Barring unforeseen large scale disasters or societal proscription of such technologies; this is definitely the path we are taking. It will be interesting to see where it leads.
Home Latest Nanotech News End of Evolution Electric Cars Cloning Pets
John Kanzius' Nanoparticles More News Financial News