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As gene editing technology rapidly advances, we are entering an era in which humans will wield unprecedented power over our own biology. These tools can correct the mutations that cause heritable diseases, sparing untold suffering. But they can also be used to select for traits that have nothing to do with health: intelligence, height, even personality. Already, a crop of biotech start-ups are racing to offer embryo screening for things like IQ.

Is gene editing embryos the only ethical choice to mitigate human suffering and ensure happier, healthier lives for our children? Or are we sliding toward a new era of eugenics? What do we lose when we start to play God?

We’re very excited to tackle these questions and more in our next live debate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on September 10th: Is designing babies unethical–or a moral imperative?

Jamie Metzl and Dr. Allyson Berent will face off against Carter Snead and Dr. Lydia Dugdale. Bari Weiss will moderate. 

VIP tickets include a ticket to our afterparty, where you’ll chat with Bari and members of The Free Press and FIRE teams, mingle with the debaters, and get a chance to meet each other IRL. Plus: strong drinks and great food.

This is a rental event presented by an independent organization separate from the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. The views and opinions expressed in the performance do not necessarily reflect those of the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust. The Trust is committed to its core values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, including freedom of expression.
 
By purchasing a ticket, you are authorizing the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust to share your information with the show’s producer. Prices, shows, artists, dates, and times are subject to change.