Human genetic engineering (HGE), a common topic for research scientists, is the process of manipulating genes in the human genome. Potentially, scientists can use the HGE process to modify many biological and psychological human traits through genetic modification. However, there is currently a significant lack of information about HGE and its effects on the human body; creating a need for scientists to conduct more research and testing. Due to the many unknowns regarding HGE, there is a need for policy makers to regulate the use of HGE by scientists. The first part of this article will provide an overview of what HGE is and the processes involved in HGE technology. This article will then analyze the potential risks associated with HGE, including: safety risks and a potential threat to genetic diversity leading to a decrease in human lifespan. Furthermore, it will argue that these risks are directly related to the use of HGE for individual benefit. Contrary to these claims, this article will also examine the benefits of HGE, which are related to the use of HGE for the benefit of the collective. Potential benefits include: manipulation of genes to treat or cure diseases, and potentially increasing the lifespan of the human population through an increase in genetic diversity. The final part of the paper will assess the future of HGE and suggest that additional research is needed to increase knowledge of the possibilities of HGE, as well as the types of policies that should be implemented by policymakers to control the use of HGE. HGE. All these assertions will be based on two reference articles, the first written by Russell Powell, Guy Kahane and Julian Savulescu and the second written by Chris Gyngell. Powell...middle of article...advocates an increase in the genetic diversity and lifespan of the human population. Therefore, policymakers must structure regulations that support the benefits of HGE, and they can do so by assessing the impact of HGE on the entire human population. HGE has a beneficial future for the human population in terms of our ability to fight disease and adapt to potential environmental changes. However, for this prediction to be accurate, regulations must be established by policymakers that endorse the use of HGE to benefit the collective rather than the individual. Number of words: 1,250 works cited1. Powell R, Kahane G, Savulescu J. Evolution, genetic engineering and human enhancement. Philosophy and technology. 2012; 25(4): 439-58.2. Gyngell, C. Improving the Species: Genetic Engineering Technologies and Human Persistence. Philosophy & Technology. 2012; 25(4): 495-512.