Real-Life Biotech Firm Petitions Star Trek’s Federation on Reddit to Change Galactic Law

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As a passionate fan of both science and Star Trek, I find this initiative by Colossal Laboratories and Biosciences to be absolutely thrilling! The idea of bringing back extinct animals using advanced genetic engineering is not only scientifically intriguing but also holds a deep connection with the spirit of exploration and innovation that Star Trek represents.

At Colossal Laboratories and Biosciences, a biotech firm with audacious goals to revive extinct animals such as dodos and wooly mammoths, caused quite a stir on Reddit recently. They presented a proposal to the United Federation of Planets, a fictional governing body in the Star Trek universe, requesting exemptions from gene editing regulations. In the Star Trek storyline, legislation enacted due to past Eugenics Wars makes it nearly impossible for Colossal to repair damaged or incomplete DNA, similar to how Jurassic Park used frogs to fill gaps in dinosaur DNA (you’re on the right track with that analogy). This creative move generated attention for their groundbreaking plans, and Reddit generally responded positively.

In the comments section, there are deep discussions taking place about the Federation’s laws and how they relate to Colossal’s business. One commenter points out that cloning is not prohibited, only modifying a being to enhance its traits. However, Colossal responds by sharing an example of their past use of genetic engineering. They had manipulated the embryos of the endangered Australian northern quoll to make them immune to the poison produced by invasive cane toads. Although this practice is legal now, it likely falls under the Federation’s gene-editing restrictions.

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Certain commentators noted instances in “Star Trek” where characters appeared to bend their roles for the benefit of the storyline. It’s possible that the writers hadn’t considered whether Doctor Crusher altering Barclay’s immune system constituted a criminal offense.

If you feel motivated, you have the option to “add your name to the petition” on this page. Alongside its initiatives aimed at reviving extinct species, Colossal also has teams of scientists engaged in various conventional biological fields such as healthcare, conservation, and so forth.

You can read the text of their application to the Federation below.

To the Esteemed Members of the Federation Council,

During the early 21st century, we experienced remarkable scientific progress, including the game-changing invention of CRISPR technology. This innovative method enables exact genetic adjustments, opening up new avenues for therapeutic and research uses. Regrettably, the misapplication of genetic engineering brought about one of the most dismal episodes in our history–the Eugenics Wars.

Khan Noonian Singh, a genetically superior being among us, spearheaded a team of scientists who engineered a powerful race. Their goal was world domination, and their actions pushed Earth to the brink of destruction, igniting the catastrophic Third World War. In the wake of these devastating events, genetic engineering was banned across Earth and became a forbidden practice in Federation law.

Although this ban on human genetic enhancement with CRISPR is crucial to avoid the dangers of eugenics and uncontrolled genetic modification, it unfortunately hinders the prospective advantages of this technology. By enforcing an absolute prohibition, we unintentionally endanger numerous endangered species, restricting our capacity to restore ecosystems and secure a vibrant world for future generations.

As a passionate gamer and advocate for scientific advancement, I implore the Federation to reconsider their strict prohibition on CRISPR technology and instead adopt a more thoughtful stance. By embracing a nuanced perspective, we can responsibly utilize this groundbreaking technology to save endangered species from extinction.

Why Lift the Ban on Genetic Modification for Animal Preservation?

  1. Prevent the Extinction of Countless Species:

    • Numerous animal and plant species are at risk of disappearing permanently from the planet due to habitat destruction, global warming, and other negative impacts caused by human activities. However, advancements in CRISPR technology provide a glimmer of hope. This revolutionary technique allows us to increase genetic variability, fortify resistance to diseases, and help creatures adapt to evolving surroundings, potentially saving them from extinction.

  2. Restore Ecological Balance:

    • Losing any single species in an ecosystem can set off a chain reaction of consequences. Through careful use of genetic engineering, we have the power to help restore balance and keep ecosystems robust and operational.

  3. Ensure a Thriving Planet for Future Generations:

    • Preserving the rich diversity of life on Earth is essential for promoting human health and happiness. It’s vital that we take steps to protect endangered species, even if it means using genetic engineering techniques, in order to pass on this natural legacy to the next generation.

Ethical Considerations

To ensure that the use of CRISPR technology for animal preservation does not lead to ethical dilemmas similar to those experienced during the Eugenics Wars, it is essential that this application be regulated strictly. Here are some guiding principles:

  • Openness and Scrutiny: Genetic modification projects should be conducted with full disclosure and undergo thorough ethical examination.

  • It’s crucial for scientists and conservationists to uphold the utmost responsibility in making sure any modifications they make are safe and yield positive results.

Conclusion

As a gamer who values the health of our world, I understand the Federation’s efforts to prevent the misuse of genetic engineering. However, a complete ban on CRISPR technology comes with its own set of risks. We could be losing precious biodiversity in the process.

As a passionate gamer and a concerned member of Colossal Biosciences, I humbly ask the Federation Council to rethink their decision on the ban of genetic modification. Let’s not close the door on innovations that could potentially safeguard ethical principles and secure the future of our natural world. Let’s find a balanced solution where progress and responsibility coexist.

Together, we can boldly go where no conservation effort has gone before. ??

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2024-07-23 20:40