Book Description
Just as digital technology transformed our world faster and in ways that would have been unimaginable mere decades ago, genetic science is about to radically alter our lives -- and in ways perhaps even more dramatic and profound. Sooner than you can imagine, human beings will be capable of diagnosing their own illnesses, designating the sex of their children, even designing the food they eat -- all as easily as using a cell phone. The genetic revolution has arrived, the genome has been mapped, and much of the technology is available now. Now is the time for every one of us to take control of our DNA, and one man is uniquely qualified to show us how: Glenn McGee, pioneer in the study of "home genetics" and wunderkind of the exciting world found at the nexus of life science, bioethics, and computer technology. One of the most respected authorities in the field of genomics -- the study of the genetic "software" inside plants, animals, and us -- McGee takes us on an eye-opening journey behind the headlines and into the heart of this formidable cutting-edge science, revolutionizing the global debate about genetics with an energy and a plan that are certain to surprise, delight, and amaze fellow experts and laypersons alike. McGee has written the first user's guide to genomics, outlining the ways in which ordinary people will soon be using genetic information in radically new ways at home, at work, and at leisure. Probing the far-ranging ethical and legal implications of genomic research, McGee tackles its most controversial and hotly debated aspects -- from patenting your DNA to genetic engineering at the supermarket -- and explodes unnecessary fears about this wondrous new knowledge. In fact, most readers of this book will no doubt find themselves making life-changing decisions about everything from insurance policies to hobbies to school selection to groceries. We live in a brave new world. Beyond Genetics is a clear, accessible, reassuring guide to the real-life choices every one of us faces, and it provides us with the knowledge we need to take the right steps forward into tomorrow ... and beyond. |
Thought Provoking Yet Readable 
McGee's predictions, while some may seem infeasible, are thought provoking and founded on ample research in today's biotechnology market.
As a student taking AP Biology, I found this book to be wholly readable; it touched on topics I've had to study, but no where did it become tedious or perplexing.
January 12, 2006 | |
Are Designer Genes in Your Future?
McGee does an excellent job of sorting through the hype about genes and genetic engineering putting to bed some issues that seem to be frightening large amounts of people (like genetically modified food) and raising issues that do not appear to be on anyone's radar screen (patents issued to large, money-making corporations for YOUR genes). He explains in terms understandable by almost everyone why it matters that we look harder at what is being done and by whom. Too many articles on this topic today seem to concentrate on genetic manipulation that will pass on to future generations of plants or animals and thus be a major factor in evolution. But this book focuses on what can or can't be done with genes in the current generation, a much more clear and present danger (or benefit). The only fault I could find with the book is that the subtitle might lead a person to believe he had more control over where, when and by whom genetic engineering will impact his life. Unless more of us get together to help craft policies and laws about the use of genetics, the answers will all come from those who stand to profit moneywise from your genes.
February 10, 2004 | |
