To the Editor
New York Times
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I must respond to an attribution by Lee Edson (Oct. 31 -Sect. 4) that

I first suggested the modification of the human genetic constitution, about
ten years ago.

I have indeed been discussing the implications of the uses of new know-
ledge of molecular biology throughoutbthat period. I certainly was not the
first to bring up these possibilities. More important, my discussions have
alwaye centered on the social and ethical dilemmas that are associated with
such techniques, as well as on the technical probleme of actually realizing
some of the prophecies that have been widely publtcized. No one who has read
my writings would believe that I advocate the "remaking of man" by the use
of genetic technology, nor do I share the naive anxieties about this type
of intrusion on the freedom of the individual that, unfortunately, make the
most attractive news copy. There is no doubt that genetic therapy daps afford

an opportunity for the relief of some heredigary defects that now occaston an
inotdinate toll of human misery. We cannot do much better today than to counsel
parents who may be carrying genes for such defects net to have ehildren, or
for some diseases to allow the diagnosis of affected fetuses in time to allow
an abortion where this is legally and ethically permitted.

It will seriously hinder the thoughtful analyesé of these complex problems
ifnefforts to ventilate an issue are confused with advocacy for a particular

policy.

Yours sincerely,

Joshua Lederberg