Inside Silicon Valley’s Growing Obsession With Having Smarter Babies

In Silicon Valley, the pursuit of enhanced intelligence is rapidly shifting from the realm of science fiction to reality. Mathematician Tsvi Benson-Tilsen, who previously spent years studying how to prevent artificial intelligence from threatening humanity, has redirected his efforts toward human genetic enhancement. As co-founder of the Berkeley Genomics Project, he argues that increasing human intelligence may be one of the most effective ways to safeguard the future.

This perspective coincides with a growing market for embryo genetic testing, where some families are paying as much as $50,000 to select embryos based on predicted traits such as IQ. Companies including Nucleus Genomics and Herasight now provide polygenic scores for intelligence, while high-end matchmakers connect technology executives with equally accomplished partners to maximize the chances of gifted offspring. Demand for these services is particularly high in Silicon Valley, where intellectual ability is often viewed as a key driver of success.

The practice, however, raises significant ethical and scientific concerns. Bioethicists warn that these technologies could exacerbate inequality by creating a genetic elite. At the same time, researchers emphasize the limitations of current models, which explain only a small portion of cognitive variation and may increase the risk of undesirable traits. Despite these caveats, proponents believe that raising intelligence levels could help address global challenges, with some rationalist thinkers explicitly aiming to cultivate future generations capable of controlling or directing artificial intelligence.

Although education and traditional family choices remain proven paths to raising bright children, many in Silicon Valley envision a more ambitious approach. For these parents and innovators, the goal is not simply to nurture the next generation, but to create it with the tools of modern science.

For more information see Zusha Elinson “Inside Silicon Valley’s Growing Obsession With Having Smarter Babies,” The Wall Street Journal, August 12, 2025. 

Special thanks to Lewis Saret (Attorney, Washington, D.C.) for bringing this article to my attention.