What if one day, nearly all of us had the same immune system – and one virus or disease arose that could wipe us all out? The human race; all life; Gone. What would happen?
Humans and animals have evolved so much since the Early Ages, and the characteristics and traits gained have been adapted to help us survive. Genetic diversity has a huge influence in human survival. With scientific research progressing, we are discovering that we can change genes in embryos to favour certain traits or characteristics – leading to the idea of “designer babies”. We don’t realise the negative impacts these changes are having on the human gene pool, and the loss of natural instincts we have evolved to have. Some mutations that seem harmful today might actually offer protection in other different environments. For example, the sickle cell trait protects us against malaria. Editing these out could make populations more vulnerable to future diseases or changing conditions. Therefore, the truth is, it seems as though we are going backwards rather than forwards.
Furthermore, there will be a reduced adaptability of the human gene pool. Genetic diversity is essential for species survival and evolution. Therefore, a more genetically “uniform” population might struggle to adapt to pandemics, climate change, or any new environments. All animals have certain features that help them adapt to the environment they are in, due to evolution. For example, polar bears. Their beautiful thick white fur allows them to blend into the snowy climate of Antarctica, and keep them warm. Therefore, by taking these adaptations away, means that diversity will be reduced, and our species and organisms will be more susceptible to extinction.
A huge environmental crisis happening all around us is Climate Change and Global Warming. This in itself, is testing the human race and all organisms, on their ability to adapt in, for example, extreme heat, or food scarcity. This therefore gives us the choice; are we forced into our own rapid adaptation? Or perhaps our reliance on technology to “save” us is becoming stronger and stronger.
This is just a snippet into what kind of questions and consequences our choices are having, particularly taking technology a step too far. Human advances have given us so much control over our lives and our survival, but they may be distancing us from our natural climate of adaptation and evolution.
Are we evolving into something entirely new? Are we going to create a different species of humans?
If you enjoyed reading this article and want to know more, stay tuned for the next article in this series to discuss further what will happen if we continue on this predestined journey.
