انسانی جینوم ایڈیٹنگ کے اخلاقی و شرعی مسائل: مقاصدِ شریعت کی روشنی میں ایک تجزیاتی مطالعہ

Ethical and Sharīʿah Issues of Human Genome Editing: An Analytical Study in the Light of Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah

Abstract

Human genome editing, particularly CRISPR-Cas9, offers significant potential for treating hereditary diseases but raises ethical concerns regarding human dignity, consent, genetic privacy, justice, and future generations. This study examines genome editing in light of Islamic jurisprudence and Maqāṣid al-Sharīʿah, focusing on preservation of life, progeny, intellect, dignity, public interest, and prevention of harm. It argues that somatic-cell editing for serious diseases may be permissible under strict scientific, ethical, and legal safeguards. However, germline and embryo editing require exceptional caution due to uncertain and inheritable consequences. Non-therapeutic genetic enhancement is also inconsistent with Islamic principles of justice, dignity, and harm prevention. The study concludes that Islamic bioethics should support beneficial medical innovation while protecting human life, lineage, dignity, and the rights of future generations.