Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the controversial practice of "designing" children through advanced genetic screening technologies, particularly in Silicon Valley, raising ethical questions about the implications of creating "super babies" and the potential for a new form of elitism in society [1][4][25]. Group 1: Technology and Market Dynamics - Elon Musk is reportedly using embryo multi-gene screening services for at least one of his children, highlighting the growing interest among wealthy individuals in these technologies [1][11]. - The technology, known as Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Polygenic Traits (PGT-P), allows parents to select embryos based on a detailed "attribute card" that includes a Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) [4][5]. - Several startups, including Genomic Prediction and Orchid, have developed proprietary algorithms to calculate these scores, with a focus on disease prevention, while newer entrants like Nucleus Genomics and Herasight are pushing the boundaries into intelligence screening [6][12][16]. Group 2: Ethical Concerns and Scientific Limitations - Leading genetic organizations have warned against the clinical application of these technologies, emphasizing that "DNA is not destiny" and that the effectiveness of PGT-P in embryo diagnosis has not been clinically validated [3][19][21]. - The algorithms used for PRS are primarily based on data from individuals of Western European descent, raising concerns about their reliability for diverse ethnic backgrounds [22][24]. - The article stresses the ethical implications of using such technologies for traits like intelligence or appearance, contrasting it with the use of genetic testing to prevent severe hereditary diseases [25][26].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising trend among tech executives in Silicon Valley to invest in finding high-IQ partners and selecting embryos with high intelligence potential, reflecting a deeper elitism and success ideology in the region [2][5]. Group 1: Investment in Intelligence - Tech executives are willing to spend up to $50,000 on new genetic testing services that promise to screen for intelligence at the embryo stage [5]. - High-end matchmaking services charge up to $500,000 to connect tech CEOs with Ivy League graduates, aiming to cultivate "smart children" [5][7]. Group 2: Genetic Screening and Ethical Concerns - The trend of "gene optimization" is seen as a way for wealthy individuals to ensure their children inherit "good genes," raising ethical concerns about fairness and the potential creation of a genetic elite [5][6]. - Companies like Genomic Prediction, Nucleus Genomics, and Herasight offer embryo genetic testing services, with prices ranging from $6,000 to $50,000, indicating a strong demand in the San Francisco Bay Area [7]. Group 3: Societal Acceptance and Implications - In Silicon Valley, there is a high acceptance of using technology to select for intelligence before birth, with elite preschools requiring IQ tests for children [5][6]. - The growing obsession with IQ among the ultra-wealthy and rationalist communities has created a complete ecosystem focused on intelligence prediction and selection [7].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rising trend among Silicon Valley elites to invest in genetic optimization technologies aimed at producing smarter offspring, reflecting a deep-seated belief in meritocracy and success [1][8]. Group 1: Genetic Testing and Optimization - Silicon Valley elites are willing to spend up to $50,000 on genetic testing services that promise to screen embryos for intelligence [1]. - Companies like Nucleus Genomics and Herasight are offering IQ prediction services based on genetic testing, with Nucleus charging approximately $6,000 and Herasight up to $50,000 for their services [6]. - Comprehensive genetic testing during IVF includes screening for over 1,200 single-gene diseases and assessing risks for complex diseases like diabetes and Alzheimer's [7]. Group 2: Social Dynamics and Market Trends - High-end matchmaking services are catering to tech executives seeking partners from Ivy League schools, with fees reaching $500,000 for such services [4]. - The interest in cultivating high-quality children is a common topic among clients, indicating a shift in priorities from romantic love to the potential of offspring [5][6]. - Influential figures in Silicon Valley, such as Sam Altman and Peter Thiel, are actively promoting reproductive optimization and investing in related startups [3]. Group 3: Ethical Concerns and Scientific Limitations - The growing obsession with IQ in Silicon Valley raises ethical questions, with concerns about creating a genetic elite and the implications for social equity [10]. - Current scientific consensus indicates that genetic testing can only explain about 5% to 10% of the variance in cognitive abilities, suggesting that selecting embryos based on predicted IQ may yield only a modest increase in intelligence [12]. - There are potential unintended consequences of selecting for high IQ, such as inadvertently increasing the risk of other undesirable traits, like autism spectrum disorder [13].