Project for SDK #22

Rent/view Andrew Niccol's film Gattaca. This film creatively tackles the issue of genetic engineering. If we were able to genetically engineer human beings to "perfection," would it be ethically correct? Vincent (Ethan Hawke) plays an "In-valid," a man born with heart problems and other genetically-eliminated diseases. But he refuses to accept his fate. Analyze how this film depicts the effect of genetic engineering on society. What position does the director (Niccol) take on this controversial issue? Include enough concrete details (i.e., specific scenes from the film) to support your answer. The swimming scenes between Vincent and his brother Anton are very symbolic. What do you think the director was trying to say with these scenes? Irene (Uma Thurman) is an almost "perfect" worker but has a small heart murmur. Though perfect, she is passed over for the space mission as well. What does her character add to the director's view of genetic engineering? And what did you think of the ending of the movie? What about Jerome's actions (Jude Law)? What are the ethical issues brought up with Jerome's decision? And what was the significance of the final scene as Vincent is about to board the spaceship? Did you like the ending of the film? After watching this film, what do you think of the morality of genetic engineering? Is there anything wrong with the attempt to have perfect children? Did any episode in the film reinforce or even change your mind? Given the chance to be genetically retrofitted, would you do so? Why or why not? Justify your position using one of the ethical positions outlined in the Week 6 Lecture. This paper must be four double-spaced pages in length (not including the References page) and utilize at least four academic quality secondary sources. Margins should be no more than one inch (right and left) and the essay should be composed in 12 point Times New Roman font. Sources must be documented and cited using APA format. Please see the tutorial in the syllabus for additional details on APA formatting and the tutorial in Week 1 on "The Elements of Fiction" for this paper.