David B. Resnik

In the following viewpoint, David B. Resnik contends that arguments against patenting human genes are unsound and that no moral reasons exist for forbidding patents on human genes. However, he cautions that because human gene patenting could have dramatic social implications, society must be willing to continually examine laws and policies and change them as necessary. Resnik is an associate professor of philosophy and the director of the Center for the Advancement of Ethics at the University of Wyoming.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What is a patent, according to Resnik?
2. In Resnik’s opinion, why is the Kantian argument against human gene patenting unsound?
3. How does the dehumanizing argument against human gene patenting unravel when examined closely, according to the author"

Should individuals or corporations be allowed to...