Can We? Should We: Ethical Dimensions of New Biotechnology
Activity Description :
Exploring the potential consequences of new biotechnologies, how they affect people and who should decide about rules and regulations.
ACTIVITY TYPE(S) : Worksheet, Discussion
DURATION :
Short version: 25–35 minutes
Full discussion + activity: 45–60 minutes
Extended project: 1–2 class periods
SUBJECT AREAS : AP Biology and Biotechnology Pathways
KEY CONCEPTS :
What are the ethical impacts of new technologies?
LEARNING OBJECTIVES :
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Evaluate a modern biotechnology (CRISPR babies, RNA vaccines, AI drug design) using ethical frameworks including justice, autonomy, equity, and long‑term consequences.
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Analyze how scientific discoveries create moral, social, and regulatory dilemmas, and identify stakeholders affected by new technologies.
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Explain how decisions about acceptable risk, regulation, and access are made, and propose alternative systems for oversight.
BACKGROUND KNOWLEDGE NEEDED : Basic familiarity with what recombinant DNA / genetic modification is is helpful but not required — the Do Now and Display Visuals introduce the historical case from scratch.
STANDARDS ALIGNMENT :
NGSS HS-ETS1-1 : Defining problems with societal impact
NGSS HS-ETS1-3 : Evaluating solutions
NGESS SEP : Asking questions, analyzing data, engaging in argument from evidence
NGSS CCC : Cause and effect; systems; stability and change
Activity Resources :
Video Reference :
Two ways to watch
This film is available in two versions: an 84-minute television cut, free to stream on PBS and the PBS App, and a 97-minute director's cut, available on Hoopla and Kanopy or by request from Uncommon Productions.
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