Americans favor the use of gene editing to prevent disease or disabilities, while there is strong opposition to using the technology to change a baby’s physical characteristics, such eye color or intelligence.
The same holds true for the opposition to altering genes in order to change physical features or capabilities.
Americans hold similar views about the ethics of gene editing.
Two-thirds say it is morally unacceptable to use gene editing to change a baby’s physical features or characteristics.
The idea of using gene editing technology to prevent or cure a genetic disorder in an adult is supported by 56 percent, opposed by 17 percent, and 27 percent neither favor nor oppose.
While Americans favor using gene editing to deal with physical ailments, there is less support for the use of taxpayer money to finance testing on human embryos to develop the technology.
Overall, 48 percent oppose federal funding to test gene editing technology, while 26 percent favor it and 25 percent neither favor nor oppose. »
