In a world where technology is advancing at a steady page the debate continues over whether the use of some technology is morally and ethically justifiable.

In the wonderful world of technology the debate of morals and ethics wages on. The newest topic in the spotlight is a chip which can be inserted under the skin of an individual's hand. The company manufacturing the chip says that it is the size of a grain of rice and would be invisible and cause no discomfort to the recipient.


Arguments in favor of the chip claim that it would be a positive addition to both the medical and law enforcement communities. The manufacturers of the chip state that used as a tracking device the chip would aid law enforcement officials in locating kidnap victims. On the medical front, the chip would be able to track patients with Alzheimers disease who have wandered away from their homes or secure areas. It would also be able to assist in emergency care for those who suffer from most health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and epilepsy. The miniscule device would contain all pertinent information needed such as the person's medical history, allergies, medication and personal information such as name, address, phone number and age which would be invaluable in getting the person immediate and proper care and to identify a patient and contact family members.

This may sound like a heaven sent solution to many crime and health problems but some religionists may beg to differ, relating the chip to the mark of the beast described in the Bible's book of Revelation. It is not just the religionists who raise issues about the chip but many others are skeptical over the actual function of the device as well. Concerns are being raised over the repercussions the chip could have in the long run. Though the manufacturers claim the chip would have no lasting side effects, it has yet to be FDA approved. In fact, once that stamp of approval has been given, the chip will rapidly begin to make it's mark (pardon the pun) on society.

Despite the religious and other obvious concerns, there are many individuals who are eager to purchase this latest piece of hardware. Like the newest car or appliance, they want to be the first on the block to possess it. The question is whether the chip will be in their possession or will they be in the chip's possession. Although the actual price for this device may or may not yet have been determined (sources differ on this), some sources have hinted at a figure of around two-hundred dollars. At that price, the chip becomes readily accessible to those who are eager to participate in this new technology. Once purchased, the chip may be taken to the recipient's family doctor for implantation. The proceedure is said to be done in the doctor's office where the chip is then inserted beneath the skin through a needle with relative speed and ease.

A large concern for many is the lack of privacy. The makers of the chip have even stated that the device could track a person's every movement. Another concern is that the use of the device will become mandatory at some time in the future, although advocates of the chip claim that this is just sheer nonsense and plain paranoia. They reassure us that the use of the device is strictly voluntary and will remain so. But can they really make such a claim with absolute certainity? We have seen examples of how power can corrupt and what could happen if technology falls into the wrong hands. Once again we are left with unanswered questions as to the road our future will take as the debate begins to heat over the latest technological advancement.

Is this miniscule device a savior of sorts or is it the mark of the beast? For now, we can only debate and pray that this technology will be used for the benefit of humankind, not to it's detriment.