Product Description
The Human Genome Project, discoveries in molecular biology, and new reproductive technologies have advanced our understanding of how genetic science may be used to treat persons with genetic disorders. Greater knowledge may also make possible genetic interventions to "enhance" normal human characteristics, such as height, hair or eye color, strength, or memory, as well as the transmittal of such modifications to future generations. The prospect of inheritable genetic modifications, or IGMs, whether for therapeutic or enhancement purposes, raises complex scientific, ethical, and regulatory issues.

Designing Our Descendants presents twenty essays by physicians, scientists, philosophers, theologians, lawyers, and policy analysts addressing these issues from diverse perspectives. In three sections, the authors discuss the short- and long-term scientific feasibility of IGM technology; ethical and religious issues related to safety, justice, morality, reproductive rights, and enhancement; and regulatory issues including the necessity of public input and oversight and the influence of commercialization. Their goal is to open a dialogue engaging not only scholars and scientists but also government officials and concerned citizens. The authors conclude that while IGM cannot be carried out safely and responsibly on humans utilizing current methods, it is important to begin public discussion now to determine whether, and if so how, to proceed.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS (Average Customer Rating: 4.0 based on 1 review)

Good... If you know your biology, an Oklahoma State University Perspective

I had the joy of reading this book for my composition class at Oklahoma State University. The book is very nicely proportioned and quite informative; however, it has some minor drawbacks. The entire book (science section especially) is mired in heavily scientific verbiage. While this was not bad enough to make me dislike the book, it is unfortunate that as a science major I was still constantly reaching for my biology book to understand the chapters. Furthermore, I was also forced to review cellular theory to fully receive the book's intended effect. I recomend this book highly, just heed my warning about the terminology. The book's excellent organization and relevance to the topic help to make up for the fact that it would be a nightmare for a non-science lover.
November 14, 2005

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