[pg314]

That already happens sometimes: it's called IVF with PGD (pre-implantation genetic diagnosis). Before an embryo is implanted a cell is taken from it and tested for genetic defects.

It's an expensive and convoluted process, so it's only done when one or both of the parents are carriers of a serious genetic mutation.

[nugget]

> it's only done when one or both of the parents are carriers of a serious genetic mutation

I have friends who have done PGD simply to select the gender of their child. Once researchers identify reliable genetic markers for height and intelligence, expect PGD to become rapidly more popular among the upper class.

[sjg007]

Well you can just pick a spouse who is tall and smart?

[antisthenes]

Then how do you deal with people who did not get a tall and smart spouse?