ABSTRACT
This chapter analyzes a Rawlsian Difference Principle that includes the benefits of the new genetic technologies among the social goods to be distributed in society. It has been argued that a traditional objection to such a development, namely, that it adds an unequal distribution of genetic assets to already existing socio-economic inequalities, is not strong enough to block the implementation of the new techniques. The chapter cannot be concluded without making some general comments on the socio-political framework presupposed by a policy that allowed for unequal access to the new genetics. It might for instance be asked whether the new genetic inequality would imply that the worse-off needed to start fighting for their rights, in the same way that their ancestors fought for privileges that were only enjoyed by the best situated classes in society. Ingmar Persson for instance believes that there are other alternatives to genetic inequality than simply postponing the implementation of the new genetics.
