I didn’t know much about genetic engineering other than its advancements are becoming more prevalent in our lives. I was really excited to join this Table Talk so I could learn more about this subject. I was expecting the conversation to circle around the way food is genetically modified and how that is affecting us, the eaters. However, the discussion delved into deeper territory.

It was mentioned how we are in the very elementary stages of growing human organs in pigs. This was particularly interesting because of all the effects it would have on humans’ standard of living. For example, picture that this advancement was so successful, it became the new norm. It would be a very normal concept to have farms full of pigs with human organs. This would be great for sick patients to have easy access to the organs they need. It would take a lot of pressure off donors. But this would also impact the economy. With an inelastic price of organs, there would no longer be a need for the organ black market. Therefore, the crime rate would drop where organ harvesting is concerned. So having a farm full of pigs with human organs goes so far beyond the scope of just genetic engineering advancements. It would have an unimaginable impact on our way of life and our economy.