ADVENT | Organizations
The Eugenics Division
"You know, in ADVENT's quest to be straightforward in our intentions, there are few lines we aren't afraid to cross. However, this is one instance where I really, really think we could have picked a slightly less controversial name."
- Kyong Suk-Chul, Public Relations Minister
Proposal 2011
Latest Revision: 5/16/2017
Designation: The Eugenics Division
Program Type: Gene Therapy; Research and Development; Genetic Enhancement
Authors: Keith Watkins, Chief Overseer of the Oversight Division; Ian Powell, Director of ADVENT Intelligence; Chancellor Saudia Vyandar; Kyong Suk-Chul, Minister of ADVENT Public Relations; Richard Tygan, Chief Geneticist; Declan Rodgers, Grand Inquisitor
INITIAL PROPOSAL: Humanity has been plagued by illnesses, defects, and plagues since the dawn of our species. As we have advanced, our ability to identify and treat them has grown from the earliest medical treatments to the gene therapy we employ today. All of this has been done for the betterment of our species and to improve the standard of living for all.
However, there is only so much that medicine and technology can do. On a fundamental genetic level, Humans are incredibly diverse, and, while this is sometimes to our advantage, it is not always so. Many medical conditions develop through no fault of the individual, who was simply unlucky in the genetic lottery.
The potential for conditions to be passed down through genetics is well known, such as susceptibility to heart disease, cancer, asthma, autism, and the like while other conditions may develop without warning, such as alopecia, deafness, malformed limbs, or other disabilities. Such can be treated, to an extent, through modern cybernetics, but all are in agreement that it would be ideal if such afflictions were never experienced at all.
To properly address these issues, treatment must begin on the genetic level, before the child even forms in the womb. Through such treatment, we can work to ensure that hereditary medical conditions and physical and mental disabilities which have afflicted our species since our origin will be wiped out.
This is eugenics.
The name of this division is one we recognize as controversial, but it is important to be forward with the general public as to what this will accomplish, and what our mission is. Eugenics is most infamous for being employed in racial, disability, and sexuality contexts, in a pointless and fruitless effort to breed a 'master race,' which the Nazis and others used as justification for their experiments and terrible policies.
Such a goal is entirely based in fiction, as it is based on the flawed notions of race which were dominant at the time. The purpose of eugenics is to improve the Human race as a whole. Race does not matter in the context of preventing disability and disease. The only aspects which are undesirable are the ones which cause us harm – that is the sole purpose of the Eugenics Division.
The goal is not to tamper with the Human genome and turn all individuals into the 'ideal' Human, but to identify and excise the elements which are universally harmful. This is an enormous responsibility, and requires that this division be highly trusted by the general population – not that we expect to rely solely on trust.
A mission such as this cannot be allowed to self-regulate. ADVENT itself cannot and should not fully rely on itself to police its usage. It only takes one disaster for the floodgates to be opened;a single opportunity to play god and decide for ourselves which traits are desirable or undesirable. If such is allowed to happen, it will send us down a path we will be unable to ever deviate from.
The Eugenics division will be one of the few ADVENT institutions with external, civilian oversight, in addition to continual monitoring from ADVENT Intelligence, the Oversight Division, and the PATRIOT Program. We have drawn our lines, and we must not cross them under any circumstances.
OBJECTIVES AND MISSION: There are three objectives which the Eugenics Division seeks to fulfill, which are as follows:
GENETIC DISEASE AND DISABILITY ELIMINATION: This is the primary objective of the Eugenics Division, the detection, treatment, and elimination of diseases and disabilities which are objectively detriments to Humanity, both physical and mental, prior to birth. These are all those which currently fall under existing classifications of such, which include, but are not limited to, blindness, deafness, hereditary conditions, malformed limbs, and autism.
This is by no means a comprehensive list, but it is enough to convey the scope and focus of this objective. We will not yet be able to treat all of these conditions at the launch of the Eugenics Division, as we have not yet identified all of the necessary treatments and procedures to effectively handle complex conditions – autism being a notable example – but that is what we will be working towards.
It is likely that we will be able to identify and treat hereditary health conditions first, as more complex diseases and disabilities will take time to identify and eliminate. It cannot be stressed enough that the mandate of the Eugenics Division cannot fall outside of these parameters. Other genetic factors cannot be modified in any capacity, which include gender, race, sexuality, eye color, and other intrinsic attributes which have no significant bearing on the health and longevity of an individual.
STANDARDIZED GENE THERAPY: ADVENT wishes to turn genetic therapy into a non-event; something that the average citizen can comprehend and not be concerned about. Currently, genetic therapy is in its infancy, and subject to wild imaginations, conspiracy theories, and speculations. What it needs to be seen as is something which is no more unique or odd than any standard medical procedure.
With gene therapy set to be a significant component of the Eugenics Division's operations, this will begin to help normalize the concept of gene therapy, and soften its image in the eyes of the public. Furthermore, it will standardize the entire procedure, which can be used as a base for expansion in the future, should ADVENT wish to pursue it.
BASELINE HUMAN ENHANCEMENT: While the primary objective of the Eugenics Division has been stated above, the direct consequence that the Division expects is one which will happen gradually over time. As more and more diseases and disabilities are slowly rendered extinct, the Eugenics Division will gradually become less and less necessary as time passes.
For example, should hereditary health conditions be eradicated, they cannot be passed on to future offspring, and it is unlikely they will resurface (though we must acknowledge the possibility for random mutations). The same is true for other similar conditions, which will become rarer over time. We do not expect to completely remove such afflictions from our species; new ones will be discovered or will prove particularly complex in solving. However, if they can be caught and mitigated before birth, it will raise the baseline Human life expectancy significantly, which is a major goal to strive towards.
INTERNAL DIVISIONS: Four internal divisions will handle various aspects of the Eugenics Division:
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT: This will be the largest and most important division, as, without it, the Eugenics Division cannot fulfill its objectives. Research and Development will be devoted to the study of identifying genetic characteristics of various illnesses, diseases, and disabilities, and how to safely detect, confirm, and remove them.
They will be responsible for proposing research paths for approval, conducting research, and organizing trials. Each project will have oversight from multiple parties to ensure compliance, including the Oversight Division, ADVENT Intelligence, and the Eugenics Oversight commission. In the interests of transparency, all finalized materials will be publicly published for external review and confirmation.
GENE THERAPY CLINICS: The Eugenics Division will also manage the Gene Therapy Clinics, which will be built in major city centers or in wings built onto existing local medical centers, and have the ability to conduct the required prenatal tests. The majority of their work will involve testing to determine if children have any of the listed conditions, and, if so, which ones are treatable.
They will, additionally, be able to provide advice and guidance as to what actions the parents can take. In the event that one of the identified conditions is treatable, the Clinics will also conduct the procedure and ensure the identified issue is resolved. It should be noted that if there is an identified condition, it must be treated. Parents cannot refuse treatment under ADVENT law, as it is considered willful child neglect - except in cases where the procedure would threaten the life of the mother or child. This is incidentally the same justification relating to vaccination.
It is advised that this requirement be made VERY PUBLIC. There will, doubtless, be public outrage, but we expect the majority will be supportive of the stated mission.
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND TRANSPARENCY: Due to the controversial nature of the Eugenics Division, it is important that there is a clear and consistent dialogue with the general public, concerned individuals, and medical professionals. This division will seek to accomplish this by holding regular press and medical conferences, open forums to the public, and tours and inspections of operating Eugenics Division facilities.
As stated earlier, the Eugenics Division will publicize all finalized documentation concerning conditions and treatment, as well as procedures utilized in the Gene Therapy Clinics. While not all documentation can be released due to patient confidentiality, they will work to provide redacted or general documentation concerning procedures and results.
It is essential that the work of the Eugenics Division not be shrouded in secrecy. There will always be those who assume the worst intentions – this is not aimed at those people, but the rightfully skeptical, who are willing to learn and understand what we do. This can only be done by giving them no reason to be suspicious. It does not matter what they do and do not understand – they need to see us making an effort to be transparent, as it will engender trust, and begin changing their perception to one which is more positive.
EUGENICS OVERSIGHT COMMISSION: This is a board of individuals which has been given special authority by ADVENT to provide oversight for the Eugenics Division. ADVENT has no say in their election, operations, and guidance. There are qualifications each member must hold, primarily being a medical professional or having a degree in a relevant scientific field, but there are no mandates as to the size, organization, or makeup of the Commission.
The purpose of the Eugenics Oversight Commission is to provide independent confirmation that the Eugenics Division is fulfilling the objectives it has set out without any deviation. Geneticists are preferred to serve as oversight, but are not required. ADVENT is, understandably, wary of putting power into a non-ADVENT institution, but this was judged to be a necessary exception.
This exception, however, is not expected to be abused. All who comprise Eugenics Oversight must be willing and able to work with ADVENT, as well as support the mission of eradicating disease and disability. So long as a mutual understanding exists, there will be acceptable communication and respect between them.
It is expected that the Eugenics Oversight Commission not frivolously or falsely hinder or halt the work of the Eugenics Division. There are very clear boundaries, where crossing them will be obvious and clear. The Commission has the authority to review any procedure, halt research and development, or freeze final approval of a project or procedure. For each of these, they must have sufficient medical data to justify their actions.
Failure to provide sufficient evidence will result in the termination of the members who were involved in the claim, though the Eugenics Division will conduct a review and clear it with the Eugenics Oversight Commission before proceeding further with the disputed project. While ADVENT will not control the process by which Eugenics Oversight is elected, we will recommend a rotation of members on an annual or bi-annual basis to ensure there is no stagnation.
It should be noted that investigations or halts based on legitimate medical information and concerns, but later found to be non-issues, will not result in any termination or investigation. This is part of the safety process, and more punitive measures will be reserved for intentionally malicious or fraudulent actions.
RECRUITMENT AND TRAINING: The Eugenics Division will primarily recruit scientists from multiple fields, prioritizing geneticists to staff the ranks of the division, who will conduct research, perform the procedures and tests, and to justify them to inquiring third parties. A concerted effort will also be made to target medical school programs, to further fill the ranks of the division.
Only medical professionals will be able to administer tests and directly authorize procedures, and, as such they must be certified medical doctors. Researchers do not necessarily have to be doctors, but they must have some familiarity with the subject matter, and will be subordinate to certified doctors.
AUTHORITY AND LIMITATIONS: The Eugenics Division will only be allowed to operate within the designated parameters of disease and disability elimination from the Human genome. They ARE NOT responsible for genetic modifications used for military purposes, nor other uses of MELD and genetic manipulation. Those are covered by other divisions and agencies.
The amount of modification which the Eugenics Division can perform is extremely limited and heavily monitored. This is an aspect which should be emphasized – they are not responsible for the enhancement of our special forces, nor for handling procedures like Manchurian Conditioning all of which fall outside the scope of its authority.
All of the Eugenics Division is subject to full and constant monitoring by the Oversight Division, ADVENT Intelligence, the PATRIOT Program, as well as the jointly-connected and independent Eugenics Oversight Commission. It is also important that press be given access as they request it, though the names of doctors and researchers should be kept anonymous unless consent has been given. This anonymity is strictly for personnel safety, and they are not anonymous to the Eugenics Oversight Commission and other oversight bodies.
Each of the above listed agencies and divisions has the authority to suspend, investigate, or halt any project or procedure being performed or researched by the Eugenics Division and subject it to internal and external reviews.
While we do not plan to employ Manchurian Conditioning for Eugenics Division personnel in the initial launch, there is a strong possibility that this measure may be implemented at a later date to further ensure compliance with Eugenics Division regulations and oversight. This is subject to performance and recommendations of overseeing agencies.
CONCLUSION: This will doubtless be a controversial and turbulent announcement for ADVENT to make. This is known and accepted. In fact, such a reaction is a positive sign; a sign that we shall be held to account if we make the wrong decision. We are in a position where we must earn the trust of the public; show them that we are capable of shouldering this responsibility and power, and holding true to our mission.
Our cause is a noble one, one which any Human should support, but the way to such a dream is fraught with potential dangers, paths which can lead down slippery slopes. We have done everything we can to ensure that we stay true to our path and mission, and that, should we fall down that slope, we will be destroyed along the way.
LONDON – The opening of the first ADVENT Gene Clinic, under the purview of the newly unveiled Eugenics Division, was met with considerable controversy and attention. ADVENT Peacekeepers stood guard outside and along the designated protest routes, and served as protection for ADVENT and medical officials.
The opening was met with one of the largest protests which has taken place since the foundation of ADVENT, though the Unification Protests were a primarily American phenomenon, while these are worldwide, the largest being in America, Germany, Israel, and Canada. Protest groups received official sanction from ADVENT and were peaceful in their demonstrations, and no incidents or agitators forced ADVENT intervention.
When asked about ADVENT's perception of the protests, Minister Suk-Chul said the following. "Citizens have a right to express their feelings in a peaceful manner, and today they did so without unnecessary violence and hindering workers and officials. We thank the organizers for working to maintain a controlled environment, and hope that they listened to what our people said regarding the opening and the Eugenics Division."
ADVENT had been quietly preparing for the opening, and were not at all surprised by the protests. The opening itself was planned to address the controversy head-on, ADVENT officials confirmed upon inquiry. "We understand that the announcement will lead to controversy and people will demand answers," read the statement. "We feel it is necessary to initially address this, and transition to an ongoing dialogue regarding the Eugenics Division."
Instead of a traditional ceremonial opening, ranking officials of the Eugenics Division, as well as multiple medical professionals, both connected to ADVENT and independent, were on-site, and directly addressed the protests in an impromptu, town-hall style format. Media outlets were also invited to cover the event.
Questioning began mid-morning, and lasted for approximately nine hours before ADVENT concluded the unveiling, with questions being taken for nearly the entire period, though some of the officials rotated in or out, both to take breaks, and to provide direct interviews with media outlets. Food and refreshments were provided for all attendees, as well as tours of the Clinic.
In addition to the main protest, there was a smaller counter-protest in support of ADVENT that took place, which was similarly approved by ADVENT, and similarly abided by the regulations regarding protesting. While exchanges between the two groups became heated at times, it remained peaceful and controlled.
It remains to be seen if ADVENT's approach will win over those who are skeptical of the Eugenics Division. By the end of the event, there were still nearly one hundred people who wanted to ask questions. ADVENT has stated that they will be holding similar events in the future to address concerns, though they only gave a timeframe of 'within several weeks', and added that it would not necessarily be in the same location, but rotate to different ones. They added that these would be livestreamed globally.
"They're saying the right things," one of the protestors said. "But that's not difficult to do. ADVENT is really good at talking about things and seeming reasonable. But eugenics isn't something that you can just 'hope' they handle responsibly. You have to push them to account."
"I consider this a test for them," another protestor said. "ADVENT likes to say 'we're listening' and will change if you give good reasons. I guess we're going to find out if they're going to be as considerate as they claim, or if it's a smokescreen."
Not all of the protestors were placated by ADVENT. "Eugenics should not be touched, period," said one protestor. "It has nothing good or worthwhile in it. This is nothing but ADVENT wanting to make everyone the same and show their complete control over us. Every single so-called 'medical professional' up there is a fraud and liar that bowed to the totalitarian state."
Notably, few went so far in their condemnations. There were also a significant number of citizens who attended who were not connected to the protest or counter-protest, but were curious as to what would be shared.
"It was interesting," one of the attendees shared. "I get where they're coming from. Think they could have avoided this whole mess by changing the name, but I'm not in charge and they handled the questions well. Figure they're going to get sick of Nazi comparisons real quick. They've done a good job so far, I think they can handle this as well."
However, ADVENT has made it clear that while they are understanding of the protests, they will not succumb to outside pressure. "The Eugenics Division is a permanent part of ADVENT," Minister Suk-Chul said in a written statement. "One which we are proud of, and know contributes to our mission of benefiting and uplifting Humanity. There are no conversations about shutting down or amending the division in response to any outside or public pressure. We expect that, as the public becomes more educated as to the purpose and mission of the Eugenics Division, they will come to support it."
Gene Therapy Clinics have officially launched in the United Kingdom, Germany, United States, Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Switzerland, Canada, Israel, and Saudi Arabia. More are scheduled to be unveiled in the coming months.
- Article | Official Launch of Gene Therapy Clinic met with Protests
Eugenics Division | Press Conference 5 | Streamlined Transcript
[Dr. Richard Tygan]: "Good morning, and thank you for your time and attention. I understand that there are questions which all of you are interested in, and I, and my team, will do my best to provide answers. Sadly, we do not have unlimited time, so it is likely that some questions will not be asked and answered, and will need to be submitted or asked at a later date. We will start now – you go first."
[Q1]: "Thank you, Dr. Tygan. Why did ADVENT believe that such an institution was necessary? Could the role that the Eugenics Division now fills be done through a sub-division of ADVENT Research and Development?"
[RT]: "Originally that was the intention, as genetic research was a topic which would constitute a focus in R&D. However, it soon became apparent that the allocated personnel and resources were insufficient, and the scope of what we wished to achieve expanded. Furthermore, there were transparency concerns. A dedicated division to this field is subject to dedicated oversight and regulation, which could have been diluted as a sub-division. We are ultimately discussing semantics, as even if we had decided to tie it to R&D, the mission and objectives would remain the same. You next."
[Q2]: "Thank you. To clarify – the Eugenics Division is solely focused on genetic treatment for inherent conditions and diseases – this has nothing to do with ADVENT's undisclosed programs regarding soldier enhancement?"
[RT]: "While I cannot comment on what programs ADVENT is running in regards to their military modification programs, you are correct. The Eugenics Division serves no military function whatsoever. We are focused on identification and treatment – not enhancement and modification."
[Q3]: "Doctor Tygan, was there discussion in ADVENT regarding the name chosen? ADVENT was aware of the controversy which would arise, were they not? If they were, why choose to identify with such a controversial word with a deeply troubled history and association?"
[RT]: "We have been aware of the implications since the beginning, and there have been many discussions and arguments surrounding the name. While it is true that designating this division as something else would have been less controversial, this would have only led to accusations that we were attempting to cover up our actions, when it couldn't be further from the truth. What we are performing is eugenics, and it is intellectually and morally dishonest to obfuscate this fact, for precisely the reasons you mention. I personally argued that we should be clear as to what our mission is and what we are doing, and make our case to the public that we are handling this responsibly. Yes, you in the back?"
[Q4]: "Thank you. So far ADVENT has emphasized the fact that deviating from the 'mission' of the Eugenics Division will not be tolerated – can you elaborate as to what this entails? Will there be harsher punishments? To put it simply – what are the consequences facing those who knowingly violate the guidelines?"
[RT]: "I'm glad you asked. We take this responsibility extremely seriously, and there is no tolerance for deviation, as we understand the consequences of allowing such actions to go with little or minimal punishment. Individuals who are found in violation will be, at minimum sentenced to ten years of prison, or face the death penalty. We will also perform comprehensive reviews on all projects and procedures such individuals were involved in to confirm that they meet the standards. All of these must be fully approved by all overseeing agencies."
[Q5]: "Doctor, are invasive programs such as these necessary to achieve your end goal? Can such disabilities not be treated or cured through standard medical procedures?"
[RT]: "In the most technical of terms, that is possible. However, it is most certainly not the most effective, nor does it solve the root of the issue. To take the example of a hereditary condition, we can certainly prescribe medicine, or have them undergo treatment to mitigate the condition – but this is a reactive treatment, one which does not solve the underlying issue, merely treats the symptoms, in addition to being vastly more expensive in the long run, not to mention there is the risk of their children also inheriting it in the future. We know the issue, we know the treatment, why would we not ensure that these are problems which do not have to be dealt with at all? Out of fear because these methods were perverted by monsters? From an economic, health, and yes, a moral perspective, these are necessary to achieve our stated mission. Next question."
[Q6]: "Thank you, doctor. Are you concerned that some of the programs the Eugenics Division will or are undertaking bear resemblances to similar experiments conducted by the Nazi regime?"
[RT]: "Absolutely not, and while it is understandable that some claims may state that initially, they are patently false – and directly fly in the face of our mission. The Nazis used eugenics to justify the extermination of those they deemed inferior: The mentally and physically disabled. The Jews and any who they deemed as 'others'. The Nazi regime used eugenics to justify hate and to oppress and harm. I would remind you that we are doing the exact opposite of this. We are curing disease and disability, we are healing and helping. We are not rounding up the diseased and disabled to justify their murder – such is wholly against our mandate. Such comparisons are irresponsible, and I will allow this, once, but to make comparisons between the Eugenics Division and the Nazi regime is factually incorrect, and betrays a deep ignorance on this particular subject. You next."
[Q7]: "Thank you. ADVENT has pledged to be extremely transparent on everything to do with the Eugenics Division. You have said that the Eugenics Oversight Commission will be the main civilian accountability agency, and they have confirmed that any internal documents they produce will be released publicly. Will this also extend to the other agencies also providing oversight, such as ADVENT Intelligence?"
[RT]: "An excellent question. To answer it – yes. Should any oversight agency act in regards to the Eugenics Division, any products and reports they produce will be released to the public. I have received direct confirmation from Director Powell and Chief Watkins, who confirm that they will be complying with this directive."
[Q8]: "You have said that ADVENT will not be involved in the management and selection of the Eugenics Oversight Commission. Why does ADVENT believe this is the best decision, and, if they are concerned with public perception, why do they not allow for additional civilian oversight agencies over other aspects of ADVENT, such as the Peacekeepers?"
[RT]: "Simply put, because this is an extremely unique situation. We are unlocking the ability to radically redefine Humanity as we know it, and while ADVENT has full confidence in the ability to regulate itself, this is, simply put, bigger than ADVENT and the public has a right to know our path as we explore the Human genome. This is what ADVENT designates as a 'need-to-know'. The public has a need to know about what we are doing in the Eugenics Division. They do not necessarily have this right when it comes to the classified information handled by ADVENT Intelligence and the Peacekeepers on a daily basis. You – to the left."
[Q9]: "Doctor Tygan, I would like to shift this conversation to a slightly different topic. ADVENT has made it clear that if there is a means of treatment, it will be mandatory. Is this not a violation of a woman's body in making her undergo a procedure she may not consent to?"
[RT]: "If she is making the conscious decision to reject the treatment of an innocent child, then that is a very selfish and dangerous outlook, similar in argument to those who refuse vaccinations and willingly endanger those around them. If there was a means of performing a procedure without touching the woman's body, it would be performed, but unfortunately it is necessary. I will add that the modification procedure is not done without the consent of the woman – but if she chooses to refuse the procedure, she will need to terminate the pregnancy. We will not allow a child to be born into this world with a condition that we could have prevented."
[Q10]: "A follow-up question to that – do you foresee this as disincentivizing childbirths?"
[RT]: "We don't have enough data to say that yet, but I am skeptical that would be the case. Any responsible parent will put the good of their children first, and there is no responsible parent who will willingly bring a child with a preventable condition into the world. If they decide not to have children because they might have to undergo a procedure - with the exception of a health risk to the mother or child of course - then that shows they are not ready to be parents because they do not have the best interests of their children at heart."
[Q11]: "Doctor Tygan, your medical credentials are extensive, and none would deny that you are qualified – but there are many others with similar backgrounds. Why were you chosen to lead the Eugenics Division?"
[RT]: "Well, as you mentioned, I have extensive experience in this particular field, and have overseen multiple projects since the start of the conflict as it relates to this subject, more than many of my peers, I would assume. I cannot fully speculate as to why I was selected, but I believe it was because I was involved in the early discussions on the Eugenics Division and I opposed the concept. I was skeptical that it could be done responsibly, and echoed many of the concerns that I have seen publicly since the unveiling. That was, I believe, a major reason why I was selected. ADVENT listened to my concerns regarding this topic, and gave me reign to construct it as I saw necessary. You in front."
[Q12]: "Thank you. Is the Eugenics Division open to collaboration with others in the scientific and medical community, or will it be strictly internal work?"
[RT]: "Assuming that a third party would abide by our transparency standards and be approved by the Oversight Division, the Eugenics Division would certainly support collaboration between ourselves and outside parties. Thank you all very much, but that is all the time we have for today."
Quisilia,
I believe this is a developing event which is worth some attention. Even as the conflict renews, ADVENT continues its rollout of additional government functions and agencies. It appears that no matter the current situation, ADVENT will continue with their expansion and development, even if it is not tactically important.
This one in particular is interesting. At first glance, this would appear to be a highly relevant development for the conflict, but the details seem to indicate the scope and usefulness of the newly announced Eugenics Division will be far less substantial than originally assumed. We knew that ADVENT was working on launching something which had to do with genetic modification, but we assumed it would have military applications, which the Eugenics division, notably, does not.
However, before giving an assessment, it is important to put some of this into appropriate context.
HISTORICAL CONTEXT: It was somewhat surprising to initially learn that Humans discarded the entire concepts of eugenics (applied to their own species - the concept has been used more frequently in animals and plants), considering that the Vitakara, Ethereals, and most every other alien species employs some degree of it – even on Vitakar it is used to ensure healthy births and enhances the overall lifespan on our species.
Humans explored the theory early in their previous century, though, after some further research, it becomes obvious why it was abandoned later on. Humans were, unsurprisingly, more interested in finding a 'superior race' than actually using it to improve their species as a whole. This led to the targeted extermination of various ethnic groups, with eugenics used as a "scientific" (and ridiculous) justification. This was most infamously done by the Nazi regime, and, after they were destroyed, eugenics, as a science, became taboo.
Thus, we are dealing with a species which associates prenatal genetic modification with ethnic cleansing, even though those subjects should not be intertwined. It is very curious that ADVENT has decided to go with this name, despite the association. Perhaps they want to change the perception of the word, or perhaps they do not care about backlash.
Regardless, despite its benign purpose, it has generated a notable amount of controversy.
PURPOSE OF EUGENICS DIVISION: The purpose is straightforward and rather limited. ADVENT only seeks to use the Eugenics Division to identify disabilities and medical conditions on the genetic level prior to birth, and eliminate them. It is a very simple and straightforward program which is nearly identical to procedures done on Vitakar soon after conception.
It speaks to just how scarred the Human psyche is in regards to eugenics that ADVENT is going out of their way to be unnaturally transparent in regards to their research, methods, procedures, and personnel. They have even given legal power to an independent group, in addition to the three other oversight arms which are attached to the Eugenics Division.
Ironically, more people are willing to pay attention to an institution exclusively designed to help people than the operations of the Peacekeepers and ADVENT Intelligence. While those are not exactly comparable, it is telling that this has easily been one of the most controversial aspects of ADVENT, to such a degree that ADVENT themselves are delicately addressing and compromising on various parts to assure the population that "You can trust us."
RECEPTION OF EUGENICS DIVISION: ADVENT smartly anticipated the controversy, and have been working overtime to blunt the storm of outrage that popped up after its announcement. Humans reacted very emotionally to this entire event, and the Eugenics Division has been holding daily press conferences and town halls to assuage each and every minute concern people have.
At the moment, it appears to be working.
Beyond the first day of surprised outrage, the conversation has shifted more openly to a 'careful observation,' though there are still groups of fervent naysayers. The efforts to be transparent are working out in ADVENT's favor, and people appear to be approving of the independent group appointed to help oversee the division. This has not necessarily stopped the accusations and comparisons to Nazis, but those have lessened substantially in recent days.
It is uncertain how much PATRIOT is shifting public discourse, but it seems very likely that, while PATRIOT is not actively censoring skeptical voices, positive or neutral takes on the Eugenics Division are being promoted and snowballing into significantly more engagement. It is important to remember that ADVENT controls all major social media platforms, and this is a situation where they are using that to their advantage.
There were multiple protests planned at the various Gene Clinics run by the Eugenics Division, all of which proceeded without incident, surprisingly enough. They were not necessarily large, the largest only having a thousand people, but that ADVENT allowed them at all, again, showcases how delicately they are treating this.
There are still some protests being planned, but they are only now a tenth of what they previously were, and the number of people planning to attend has dropped significantly. Due to a combination of the continued war, as well as ADVENT's forward-thinking approach to this launch, it will likely fade into the background in a matter of weeks.
ADVENT handled this well, and once people accept it, it will not be a problem again.
LIKELY EFFECTS: What will happen as a result of this contentious and controversial division?
Very little.
This division is in its infancy, and – let us be generous and assume that we will witness it in full operation – all that will result is that Humans will now be born without medical conditions and disabilities. This has effectively no short-term impact, and only serves to help ensure that the Human species will be healthier overall in the future.
If we are at a point where the only reason the Humans are still fighting us is because children born while the Eugenics Division is in operation are healthier than they were previously, we have much bigger problems to worry about. It is potentially worth exploiting the Human taboo around the word eugenics, but even that is an arguable waste of effort. ADVENT has systematically neutered arguments against it, and a campaign of that type would be pointless.
It should be noted, again, that the Eugenics Division does not handle military augmentations. It is irrelevant to our interests, and there is little point dwelling on it.
- Zar'Chon'ravarian'vitiary