He Jiankui's 2018 gene-edited babies led most countries to ban germline editing. CRISPR can correct hereditary disease — and select for intelligence before birth. If science makes your child healthier, is it wrong not to? Two debaters, opposing sides — you score who makes the stronger case.
Thursday, August 27, 2026 · 7:00 PM EDT
What's at stake
Genetic enhancement risks stratification that dwarfs existing inequality. An absolute prohibition forecloses interventions that could eliminate genuine suffering.
The Matchup
Debater: To be announced
Debater: To be announced
Join the debate
Record a 60-second video on either side, or make it in writing. The strongest cases get featured before the live debate.
“Genetic engineering could eliminate devastating hereditary diseases like Huntington's, cystic fibrosis, and sickle cell anemia. Parents should have the option to spare their children from preventable suffering.”
“As climate change, antibiotic resistance, and new pandemics threaten humanity, genetic modification may become essential for our species' survival and adaptation.”
“Germline editing creates permanent changes passed to future generations who cannot consent. We're making irreversible decisions that affect people not yet born.”
“Access to genetic enhancement will likely be limited to the wealthy, creating a biological class divide where the rich can literally purchase superior traits for their children.”
The Format
Standard SuperDebate: two people, cross-examination, moderated from start to finish.
4 min · PRO · opening case
4 min · CON questions PRO
4 min · CON · opening case
4 min · PRO questions CON
3 min · PRO
3 min · CON
3 min · PRO · final case
3 min · CON · final case
— · You pick the winner
Don't miss it
The debate happens live with real-time audience voting. Get one email right before we go live, with the watch link.
Premieres
Thursday, August 27, 2026 · 7:00 PM EDT
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