Human genetic engineering (HGE), a prevalent topic for scientists engaged in research, is the process of manipulating genes in the human genome. Potentially, scientists can use the HGE process to alter many human biological and psychological traits through genetic modification. Currently, however, there is a great lack of information about HGE and its effects on the human body; creating the need for scientists to conduct more research and testing. Because of the many unknowns involving HGE, it is necessary for policymakers to regulate HGE for use by scientists. The first part of this document will provide an overview of what HGE is and the processes involved in HGE technology. This paper will therefore analyze the potential risks associated with HGE, which include: safety risks and a potential threat to genetic diversity causing a reduction in human lifespan. Furthermore, it will be argued that these risks are directly linked to the use of HGE for individual benefit. Contrary to these claims, this article will also consider the benefits of HGE, which are linked to the use of HGE for the benefit of the community. Potential benefits include: the manipulation of genes to treat or cure diseases, and the potential to increase the lifespan of the human population through an increase in genetic diversity. The last part of the paper will evaluate the future of HGE and suggest that further research is needed to increase knowledge of the possibilities of HGE, as well as the types of policies that should be put in place by politicians to control the use of HGE . HGE. All of these claims will use the support of two reference articles, the first written by Russell Powell, Guy Kahane and Julian Savulescu and the second written by Chris Gyngell. Powell... at the center of the article... predicts an increase in the genetic diversity and lifespan of the human population. Therefore, policymakers must structure regulations that support the benefits of HGE and can do so by assessing the impact of HGE on the entire human population. HGE has a beneficial future for the human population with regards to our ability to fight disease and adapt to potential environmental changes. However, for this prediction to be accurate, policy makers need to establish regulations that support the use of HGE for the benefit of the community rather than the individual. Word Count: 1250 Works Cited1. Powell R, Kahane G, Savulescu J. Evolution, genetic engineering and human improvement. Philosophy and technology. 2012; 25(4): 439-58.2. Gyngell, C. Improving the species: genetic engineering technologies and human persistence. Philosophy and technology. 2012; 25(4): 495-512.