How do parental choices affect the lives of children in GATTACA?

In the context of GATTACA, parental choices have a profound impact on their children's lives by dictating opportunities and societal roles based on genetic status. The film presents a dystopian future where society values genetic engineering, and children are designed or selected based on desired traits. This means that the choices made by parents—whether to use genetic modification techniques and the traits they prioritize—create a framework within which their children will operate throughout their lives.

For example, children born with enhanced genetic traits are granted access to better educational and career opportunities, while those conceived naturally or with perceived genetic disadvantages face significant societal discrimination. This starkly illustrates how parental decisions regarding genetics can influence not only the individual identity of the child but also their ability to navigate societal structures, fulfill personal ambitions, and achieve success. The narrative of GATTACA emphasizes the struggles of individuals like Vincent, who, despite his genetic predisposition, seeks to redefine his identity beyond what his genes dictate. This situation underscores how deeply embedded genetic determinism can affect perceptions of worth and potential in a society where parental choices shape the genetic legacy of future generations.