A new ethics for the development and application of genetic technologies in a pluralist society

Prenatal testing and preimplantation genetic diagnosis already allow parents to avoid the birth of children with unwanted genes; in the future they may also be used to choose children with desirable genetics. This prospect raises profound ethical questions, which this research sets out to answer. The project will develop a new ethical framework for the development and use of these technologies. It will advance our knowledge of bioethics and build Australia's capacity to address the difficult public policy issues raised by advances in human genetics. By promoting the ethical use and development of genetic technologies it will help ensure that future Australians enjoy a healthy start to life.