Debate on human genetic modification...

Here is a link to a debate on whether the modification of human genes should be pursued.

http://www.debate.org/opinions/should-the-modification-of-human-genes-be-pursued

These are some good answers as extracted from the debate above.

Yes:

The modification of human genes should be pursued responsibly. We are in an exciting time in human achievement. Breakthroughs in science are allowing us to live longer healthier lives. If gene modification can be used to promote health, I am for it. I do feel, however, that if it is used for anything else, then it will be a slippery slope into playing with things that we may not want to touch. It's worth it to treat life-threatening diseases, but if one wanted to do it simply to have a blond-headed, 6' male child, then the risks could outweigh the benefits. Superficial use of science always seems to come with potential risks.

No:

Human genes should not be modified because the long term effects are unknown could be harmful. The modification of human genes should not be pursued because it is unnatural, will not provide long-term benefit to the human race and goes against the entire circle of life and how the human race works. There has to be some limit to science, otherwise we will be tempted to modify the human gene to the point that life becomes a game in a sense to see how fast and how far we can go, without regard to the sanctity of life.

From this, I understand that there are two differing views on this situation and its depends on a person's point of view to decide which stand he/she would want to take. However, when I was reading through the responses on the debate webpage, I was wondering... Is it ethical for us to alter the course of nature just to benefit the future generations of humans to come?