Individualism and Collectivism

Tomorrow I get to lead a discussion after viewing a video on DNA, personhood, and human nature. In thinking and preparing for it, I began thinking about DNA sequencing.

The video features, Watson, who was one of the scientists that discovered DNA. He suggests that the decisions that we make about DNA should ultimately be of value to society.

While initially, I wasn't thinking about the "theories" of collectivism and individualism as being related to his ultimate goal; I find that they are profoundly related. He didn't dismiss any type of human configuring or manipulation of DNA, IF it was good for society. But, how does he determine what is good for society, except what the individual can add to society? The individual is not valued in his "economy", as is the case with any collectivist.