CRISPR-Cas9 and Genetic Modifications: The Science, the Ethical Questions and Theological Reflection Camillia Musano A Thesis in The Department of Theological Studies Presented in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Arts (Theological Studies) at Concordia University Montreal, Quebec, Canada July 2020 © Camillia Musano, 2020 CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY School of Graduate Studies This is to certify that the thesis prepared By: Camillia Musano Entitled: CRISPR-Cas9 and Genetic Modifications: The Science, the Ethical Questions and Theological Reflection and submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts (Theological Studies) complies with the regulations of the University and meets the accepted standards with respect to originality and quality. Signed by the final examining committee: Chair Dr. Jean-Michel Roessli Examiner Dr. Lucian Turcescu Examiner Dr. Jon Waind Thesis Supervisor(s) Dr. Christine Jamieson Approved by Dr. Marie-France Dion/Dr. Lucian Turcescu Chair of Department or Graduate Program Director Dr. Pascale Sicotte, Dean, Faculty of Arts and Science August 19, 2020 Date Abstract CRISPR-Cas9 and Genetic Modifications: The Science, the Ethical Questions and Theological Reflection Camillia Musano Genetic engineering has been a subject of interest to ethicists and theologians specifically with genetic modifications using CRISPR-Cas9. The way CRISPR functions is that it can cut a specific DNA sequence and then it can silence or insert and delete genes. This scientific method can help treat or prevent diseases by removing the DNA sequences that causes them. Furthermore, CRISPR could also be used to enhance genetic traits through this kind of gene editing. The ethics surrounding CRISPR has been a growing concern, specifically whether someone has the right to intervene in a person’s DNA without their consent, such as in utero. In addition, there have also been concerns on how genetic modifications affect our autonomy, moral agency, actions and society as a whole. Theological reflection on genetic modifications asks deeper questions. We begin to see how genetic modification can affect the foundations of Christianity in healthcare. Moreover, theology explores the question of whether or not it is moral for a human to play God and what a future might be like with genetically modified individuals. This leads us to reflect on what it means to be human once our bodies are changed in this way. Genetic modifications provoke differing views among many people and this thesis will explore the different perspectives in order to come to a deeper understanding of what is at stake. iii Acknowledgements and Dedication To my parents, thank you for all your support and continuous encouragement. To my brother, Nando, thank you for your academic and personal support. In addition, thank you for introducing me to theological studies and always making me laugh when I needed to the most. To my friends, thank you for your support and your words of encouragement. To my fellow graduate students, thank you for your constant support and good times throughout my Master’s journey. To the faculty in Theological Studies, thank you for encouraging me to have a voice in class and expanding my knowledge in the area of theology. Furthermore, thank you for teaching amazing classes and for the great conversations. To my editor, Diane Wood, thank you for editing my thesis with me, it would not be what it is today without your help. I learned a lot while working with you and you taught me so many ways to improve my writing. Thank you for being a remarkable editor and teacher. Finally, to my thesis supervisor, Dr. Christine Jamieson, it was your Theology and Bioethics course that led me to want to do a Master of Arts in Theological Studies. A big thank you for your guidance, mentorship and support throughout my Master’s journey. Moreover, thank you for being an excellent supervisor and constantly encouraging me to keep at this topic. iv Table of Contents Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 1 Chapter 1: The Science of Genetic Modifications and CRISPR-Cas9 ................................................. 4 Introduction ............................................................................................................................................. 4 What is CRISPR-Cas9? ........................................................................................................................... 4 Functions of CRISPR .............................................................................................................................. 5 Mutations ................................................................................................................................................ 8 How Gene Enhancement Coincides with Gene Therapy ......................................................................... 10 The Science of Mitochondrial Replacement .......................................................................................... 11 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................ 13 Chapter 2: Ethics and Genetic Editing Technology ........................................................................... 14 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 14 Habermas’ Argument ............................................................................................................................ 15 The Intervention of Parents .................................................................................................................... 16 Harris, Sandel and Autonomy ................................................................................................................ 19 Moral Agency and the Responsibility for Actions .................................................................................. 22 How Natality is Affected by Gene Editing ............................................................................................. 24 Autonomously Conscious? .................................................................................................................... 26 Destroying a Species with Gene Drives ................................................................................................. 28 Social Superiority .................................................................................................................................. 29 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................ 30 Chapter 3: Theology and Genetic Editing Technology ...................................................................... 32 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................... 32 Foundations ........................................................................................................................................... 33 Playing God .......................................................................................................................................... 38 The Jewish Tradition and Genetic Modification ..................................................................................... 44 Future-Oriented Theology ..................................................................................................................... 46 Eschatology and Genetic Enhancement .................................................................................................. 47 What it Means to Be Human .................................................................................................................. 49 Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................ 51 Conclusion ........................................................................................................................................... 53 Bibliography ........................................................................................................................................ 57 v Introduction The goal of this thesis is an exploration of the ethical and theological implications of genetic modifications and CRISPR-Cas9. The following is a brief overview of what each of the three chapters tackles. It will first start by introducing the science behind genetic modifications and CRISPR-Cas9 to understand what this technology is and how it functions. This will lead, in the second chapter, to the discussion of the ethical implications surrounding genetic modifications that raise questions about autonomy, moral agency, and parental intervention. The last chapter of the thesis will cover theological arguments regarding genetic modifications. Such arguments include the topics of Christian foundations, playing God, eschatology, and the question of human nature. These various topics will bring to light the very essence of what is involved in discussions around genetic modifications. CRISPR-Cas9 is slowly making a name for itself in the world with new progress every day for treatment options. CRISPR stands for “clustered