In Silicon Valley, the pursuit of innovation extends beyond technology into the realm of human potential. Wealthy tech moguls are reportedly shelling out up to 4 million rubles (approximately $40,000) to ensure their children are born with a genetic edge, specifically targeting high IQs.
This controversial trend aims to cultivate a future elite tailored for the IT sector, leveraging cutting-edge preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) to select embryos based on intelligence and reduced risk of genetic diseases.
PGD, a technique traditionally used to screen for severe genetic disorders, is now being repurposed by the tech elite to engineer "optimized" offspring. By analyzing embryos created through in vitro fertilization, this process allows parents to choose those with the most promising genetic profiles — prioritizing cognitive potential alongside health markers. T
he science remains debated, with critics questioning the reliability of IQ predictions and the ethical implications of such selective breeding.
Leading this niche market are startups like Nucleus and Herasight, which boldly market their services as a means to create "programmed" children. These companies cater to a clientele of affluent tech entrepreneurs and venture capitalists, who see genetic optimization as the next frontier in securing their legacy. The appeal lies in the promise of giving their kids a head start in an increasingly competitive industry where intellectual prowess is king.
This trend reflects a broader pattern among the rich: they set their own rules and trends. While the average person might view such practices as science fiction, Silicon Valley’s elite embrace them as a logical extension of their data-driven lifestyles. Yet, the approach raises red flags. The technology’s accuracy is unproven, and its reliance on limited genetic data — often skewed toward specific populations — could lead to unintended consequences. Moreover, it risks widening social inequalities, creating a genetically privileged class while others are left behind.
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The narrative of designing a smarter generation for the IT sector might appeal to the region’s innovation obsession, but it also sparks a critical debate. Is this a step toward progress or a slippery slope toward eugenics? For now, the wealthy continue to invest in this futuristic vision, betting on their children to dominate the tech world of tomorrow—while the rest of society watches and wonders.
