What is "Scythe" in the novel, Upgrade?

Scythe, or the complex genetic system that allows genetic information to be altered in living things, is a representation of humanity’s progress. On one hand, Scythe is a technical masterpiece, capable of eradicating diseases, halting the aging process, and improving the mental and physical state of humans. However, it is also extremely dangerous because it relies on the goodwill of those same humans not to abuse or misuse it. This means that the actual effectiveness of Scythe depends on the ambitions of those capable of using it and can change the moment that humanity alters its views.