Analyzing a Cartoon on Designer Babies

This page presents a cartoon that satirizes the concept of designer babies, using humor to highlight ethical concerns surrounding genetic engineering. The image depicts a scene in a genetic engineering laboratory, where prospective parents are consulting with a doctor about designing their future child.

In the cartoon, a couple is shown speaking with a doctor who is holding a test tube, symbolizing genetic engineering techniques. The woman makes an unusual request, asking the doctor to give their future baby "a touch of astigmatism" because she thinks "kids with glasses are sooo cute!" This request humorously illustrates the potential for parents to select superficial traits for their children if given the opportunity.

The cartoon raises several important points for analysis:

1. The casual nature of the parents' clothing suggests that genetic engineering could become accessible to average people, not just the wealthy.

2. The doctor's surprised expression indicates that even professionals might be taken aback by some requests for genetic modifications.

3. The mother's desire for a child with astigmatism, typically considered a visual impairment, highlights the potential misuse of genetic engineering for non-medical or purely aesthetic reasons.

4. The overall scene prompts reflection on the ethical implications of allowing parents to choose specific traits for their children, especially when those traits might not be in the child's best interest.

Vocabulary: Astigmatism is a common and usually minor eye condition causing blurred or distorted vision. It occurs when the cornea or lens isn't perfectly smooth and evenly curved in all directions.

Highlight: The cartoon effectively uses humor to address the serious topic of genetic engineering and its potential misuse, encouraging viewers to consider the ethical implications of designer babies.

Example: The mother's request for astigmatism serves as an example of how genetic engineering could potentially be used for non-medical purposes, raising questions about the limits and regulations needed in this field.

This cartoon serves as a thought-provoking piece that encourages viewers to consider the pros and cons of genetic engineering and its potential impact on future generations. It touches on themes relevant to discussions about designer babies in 2023 and beyond, as well as broader debates about the future of genetic modification in humans.