Document 35 
The potential benefits of genetics, especially in relation to genetic 
defects resulting in physical and/or mental deficiencies, appear to be tre- 
mendous. Of concern, here, is a definition of what is meant by physical and 
mental deficiencies. It is important to delineate what is meant by mental j 
deficiencies. Mental retardation would fit, if the source of same is genetic | 
defect. Alteration of social behavior must be dealt with with extreme caution ‘j 
in the light of human individuality and in consideration of freedom of indi- 
vidual expression. (Lobotomies come to mind here.) The definition of physical 
deficiencies necessitates avoidance of anything that smacks of racism or , 
standardization of characteristics. 
The apparent positive contributions of genetics would suggest continued j 
investigation. The hazards of some would appear to be located in the appli- 
cation of such knowledge. An essential element in genetic engineering would 
be the establishment of guidelines for the ways in which it would be used. 
Physical sciences and social sciences must work with one another, focusing on ij 
the social consequences of expanding scientific knowledge. 
It would seem to me that the greatest danger of genetic engineering is j 
the manner in which such knowledge would be used. An essential consideration 
in genetics would appear to be the orientations of those who propose to apply j 
the knowledge. The past has noted movements to "improve" future generations. 'i 
These range from encouragement of "judicious breeding" to enforced steriliza- \j 
tion and destruction of people under National Socialism in Germany. In such j 
movements there has been the t^int of racism and elitism, which are antithetical | 
to dominant American values. i 
I 
I 
I 
Margo Frazier I 
Department of Sociology i' 
Southeastern Oklahoma State University i' 
Appendix K — 179 
