Genetic Selection Replaces Nature

George Mack believes that sex as a reproductive mechanism is likely to be replaced by technological alternatives, driven by advances in genetic selection and increasing control over reproductive outcomes.

Key Points:

• Historical Trend of Decreasing Sex-to-Baby Ratio:

  • First official condom in 1855 (earlier versions using animal parts in 1500s)
  • Morning after pill introduced in 1920s, full effect in 1970s
  • Trend shows declining connection between sex and reproduction

• Current Technology Developments:

  • IVF becoming more prevalent
  • Biobanks storing genetic data
  • Phenotype and genotype testing advancing
  • Embryo selection capabilities improving

• Future of Reproduction:

  • Wealthy people leading adoption of genetic selection
  • Technology will eventually trickle down to broader society
  • Parents can select from multiple embryos (around 10)
  • Selection criteria starting with health concerns:
    • Avoiding diabetes
    • Preventing Crohn's disease
    • Reducing cancer risks

• Potential Future Selection Criteria:

  • Height
  • Eye color
  • IQ
  • Other physical and cognitive traits

• Market Forces:

  • Parents unlikely to choose "natural" reproduction when selection offers advantages
  • Similar to choosing automatic over manual transmission in cars
  • Technology becoming more accessible and normalized over time

The shift is driven by increasing ability to control outcomes and parents' natural desire to give their children advantages, making traditional reproduction potentially obsolete for future generations.