Biotech entrepreneur Ben Lamm recently made a guest appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, where he revealed some alarming insights into the future of gene editing. Lamm, who is the CEO of Hypergiant, a leading AI and machine learning company, warned about the potential for a global genetic arms race, with China leading the way in controversial advancements.
In the interview, Lamm highlighted China’s rapid progress in the field of gene editing, which has raised concerns about ethical and safety issues. China made headlines in 2018 when a scientist claimed to have edited the genes of twin babies, sparking a global outcry. While the accuracy of the claim has been questioned, it shed light on the potential dangers of unregulated gene editing.
Lamm warned that this could lead to a global genetic arms race, with countries trying to outdo each other in creating genetically modified superhumans. This could have profound and unsettling implications for the future of humanity. Lamm explained, “If we start to see genetic enhancements happening in one country, then it’s very likely that other countries will feel the pressure to follow suit in order to stay competitive.”
The idea of genetically enhanced superhumans may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but Lamm believes it is a very real possibility in the near future. He explained how advancements in technology and gene editing have made it easier and cheaper to manipulate the human genome. “We are talking about the ability to manipulate our own biology and enhance our own capabilities. It’s no longer just science fiction; it’s becoming a reality,” Lamm said.
The potential for a global genetic arms race is not the only concern. Lamm also highlighted the ethical and safety issues that come with gene editing. He pointed out that while we have made significant progress in understanding the human genome, we are still far from fully understanding it. This lack of knowledge could lead to unintended consequences and unforeseen side effects.
The interview with Lamm has sparked a heated debate about the future of gene editing and its potential impact on humanity. Many experts have expressed their concerns about the ethical implications and the need for regulations to prevent a genetic arms race. Some have even called for a global ban on gene editing until the technology is better understood and regulated.
However, Lamm believes that a complete ban is not the solution. He argues that gene editing has the potential to cure diseases, improve our quality of life, and even extend our lifespan. “We shouldn’t be afraid of this technology, but we should approach it with caution and responsibility,” he said.
The potential benefits of gene editing cannot be ignored, but it is crucial to have a global conversation about its ethical and safety implications. Lamm emphasized the need for transparency and regulations to ensure that gene editing is used for the greater good and not for creating a genetically superior race.
The interview with Lamm has left many people, including Joe Rogan, with a lot to think about. It has shed light on a topic that is often overlooked and sparked a much-needed conversation about the future of gene editing. Lamm’s warning about a potential genetic arms race is a wake-up call for all of us to take this technology seriously and approach it with caution.
In conclusion, gene editing has the potential to revolutionize the way we live, but it also brings with it ethical and safety concerns that cannot be ignored. The interview with Ben Lamm has shed light on the need for regulations and global cooperation to ensure that gene editing is used responsibly and for the betterment of humanity. As we continue to make advancements in this field, it is essential to keep an open mind, but also be mindful of the potential consequences. Let us use this technology to improve and enhance our lives, not to create a genetic arms race that could have disastrous consequences for humanity. It is up to us to shape the future of gene editing and ensure that it is used for the greater good.
