As we approach and think about the twenty first century, I wonder about what new discoveries and innovations lie ahead. If the 19th century was the industrial age, the 20th the electronic-information age, various folks are suggesting that the 21st century will be the Biotechnology Age. The coming changes are so radical they will not only revolutionize medicine but also determine the very future of the human race.

Microbiologists, which are the explorers on this new frontier, say that the the completion of the entire human-genetic map is at hand. They estimate that by early in the 21st century, the function of all 100,000 genes, which are the individual steps, on the spiral staircase of the DNA double helix, will be understood.

With this knowledge, doctors, will not only be able to treat illnesses which were previously incurable, but also, at a prophylactic level, genetic blueprints of fetuses will allow a wide range of profound problems such as birth defects, cancer and mental retardation to be detected and corrected, even before the child is born!

While, at first, genetic therapy sounds like science fiction it is not. Although it will offer miracles to parents and the sick, I worry that there is an another, ominous side to genetic technology. Before we find ourselves in a Sorcerer's Apprentice like nightmare, we need to start looking at some complex and difficult questions.

Specifically: 1) What is the impact of altering the human gene pool? 2) Who and how will the use of this technology be governed? and 3) What kind of changes will be allowed?

1) While it is hard to imagine any pregnant mother who wouldn't want to correct a genetic abnormality found in her unborn fetus, it needs to be understood that changes made in the DNA of the fetus would effect not only that child but also all of its progeny. Gene manipulation is permanent and forever.

While we get upset about endangered species and their impact on the ecosystem, biologists warn us that we need to be aware that the consequences of extinguishing genes from human pool, will not be easy to predict. Further, getting rid of any genes now, even those that are seen as harmful, could sew the seeds for a species catastrophe down the road.

2) Who will control who has access to this medical magic? As it stands, private corporations are in the process of getting patents on information connected to specific genes and correlated technologies. Private ownership of this kind of intellectual property means that the control of and access to the new wonders will be essentially by consumer demand and ability to pay. Those who have the money will get the miracles and those who don't won't. Of course the companies who have spent millions in R&D are entitled to a profit on their investments, but does this mean that the new marvels will be available only for the rich?

3) What are the limits of genetic manipulation? At a basic level getting rid of dreaded diseases and conditions seem obvious, but what about improvements -- better eyesight or hearing or what about a little taller or even better intelligence or longer life?

Jeremy Rifkin in his, new book, The Bio Tech Century writes that the ultimate result of a free market regulated, genetic medicine industry is a sharply divided society comprised of have and have nots. Rifkin speculates that the impact of genetic alteration would be so profound as to constitute the emergence of a new, superior species of humanity. He explained in a recent NPR interview, that while the term eugenics is not used, it applies. Unlike the old master race scenarios connected with Nazi Germany, the new eugenics is the product of human desire and unregulated consumerism.

My reason for raising this topic is not to stir up panic nor even to suggest any particular answers. My concerns are to suggest that we must become aware of and assume responsibility for our future, proactively, and not simply let it happen. Rather than seeing the biotech scenario as inevitable or in shrugging, we need to begin to talk and ask questions about these issues. Further, we need to let our representatives know that we care about these issues.

Some will say that the new technology will be a blessing and others will say it will be an abomination. The words of St Paul, remind us "not to squelch the spirit..., but to test all things and hold on to what is good." (I Thes. 5.21) The same advise can be applied to dealing with the bio-technology.

My belief is that if we become aware and if we examine our options elect enlightened leaders we can influence how the new science will be used. My hope is that open debate will lead to wise public policy.

Open minds and critical thinking and not fear or hysteria need to distinguish our attitude toward the future. The time to imagine and discuss the future we wish to create is now.