The genetic
supermarket
Social design, Speculative design, Research, ​Genetic modification
Genetic modification will be possible in the future. We can edit the genes of our children to choose how they will look like, how athletic and how smart they will be, to name a few examples. But who decides what we can genetically modify in our future babies? Is the government taking control or do we leave the decisions to the individual?​
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To open the dialogue about making decisions about genetic modifications through human germline genome editing (HGGE) I created a speculative genetic supermarket. It serves as a conversational tool and illustrates a possible future in which we can select genes to edit in our future children, much like shopping in a supermarket. This helps explore our preferences for decision making about germline modification. The goal is to engage a diverse group of people to get a clear picture of the public opinion. Therefore, I started a dialogue in different markets in Rotterdam to explore opinions within the city and between different neighborhoods.
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The dialogue method I applied to these markets:
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Attract attention
By handing out supermarket sales flyers, I want to attract people. -
Provide context
I briefly explain HGGE, the concept of the genetic supermarket, and why their input is important. -
Encourage participation
I invite them to give their opinions on who should determine the content of the genetic supermarket - doctors, health insurance companies, the government, parents or otherwise? -
Engage and deepen
After the interaction, I will dig deeper into their responses so that I can better understand their perspectives and stories.
