1. In his viewpoint, G. Terry Sharrer acknowledges that while genetic cures will increase life expectancy and improve the quality of life for many patients, the “original concept of gene therapy” has been largely unsuccessful. Tom Bethell also observes that gene therapy has yet to be proven effective. Given those caveats, do you think that genetic cures will change medicine? Why or why not?
2. Michael S. Goldstein, Tom Ferguson, and Kevin W. Wildes contend that the relationship between patients and doctors is evolving, as patients turn to other sources, such as spirituality and the Internet, to better understand their illnesses and possible treatments. What is your opinion on the increased autonomy of patients? Does this independence help or hinder the quality of care that doctors can provide? Explain your answer.
3. The American medical system has changed significantly in recent decades. Which of the viewpoints in...