Genetically Altered Embryos

Now for the first time, news has surfaced of tests on Human Embryos' is being conducted to see if they can be modified. Some watch groups however have condemned this kind of research as trying to create "designer babies". One author however said that the studies were centered on stem cells. The author also noted that the research was done on an abnormal embryo that had no chance of ever developing into a baby. Dr. Zev Rosenwaks who is the director of the Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center remarked that "None of us wants to make designer babies". The embryo that was tested had extra chromosomes that made it nonviable. Following the same type of procedure used with animals, a gene was inserted that would act as a maker that can easily be tracked over time. The result that scientist were looking for, that a gene when introduce into an abnormal embryo could still be tracked in stem cells that are taken from the embryo. No stem cells however were taken from this embryo. Although I see the potential benefit of stem cell research I can understand and in some ways share the fear that certain watch dog groups have. If left unchecked, this type of research could take a turn for the worst. People paying top dollar to have their future children genetically altered to suit their own desires. Hair color, stamina, intelligence, or athletic ability could all be chosen before pregnancy and then administered after conception. While those how can't afford to pay the exorbitant price will be left with children who might one day be considered "second class". Sound farfetched? Just remember we live in a time of the Internet, wireless communications, as well as several other things we take for granted every day, just think 15 to 20 years ago all this was science fiction. With that in mind, is it really so hard to accept the possibility?