Synopsis
Arguing that the everyday human intellect has been outpaced by scientific advances, a study of genetics and its potential impact on society explains what we have achieved while noting the ramifications of expanding on such technology.
Reviews
British science journalist Tudge has produced an exciting, intellectually adventurous survey of modern genetics, beginning with the neo-Darwinian fusion of Darwin's gradualist evolutionary ideas and Mendel's plant-breeding experiments, and extending to the latest advances in sociobiology, gene therapy, bioengineering, genetic screening, efforts to preserve biodiversity and the Human Genome Project to map the entire human DNA sequence. Mulling over why sexual reproduction arose, Tudge finds strong evidence for the "Red Queen hypothesis," according to which sex fosters genetic variability, thereby helping creatures defeat parasites and viruses. He neatly demolishes theories linking race to difference in intelligence. The author believes that with the invention of farming, natural selection no longer favored passive hunter-gatherers but promoted exploitative, industrious individuals, whose characteristics dominate modern society. Also included are his prescriptions for increasing the chances for survival of our species.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
While a number of recent books have dealt with genetics, relatively few deliver a good balance between overall breadth of coverage and the intelligent, readable synthesis of the myriad issues introduced as a result of breaking genetics research. British science writer Tudge accomplishes this daunting task admirably. Beginning with a historical survey of the field, he continues with discussions of the principles of genetic replication and natural selection, then examines how those processes can be manipulated and what it all means to individuals and society. Stylistically, Tudge writes in a practical, disarming prose that is a refreshing contrast to the turgid voice favored by both alarmists and enthusiasts. The final chapter offers as good a summary of the ethical and public policy challenges raised by genetics research as can be found anywhere. Fine as an alternative or complement to Robert Shapiro's The Human Blueprint (LJ 9/1/91) in any core collection of popular works on genetics.
Gregg Sapp, Univ. of Miami Lib., Coral Gables
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Tudge's conversational tone in this originally British book helps make his technical subject matter more accessible to general readers. This is fortunate, for his argument is that the general public is neither scientifically nor technologically literate and therefore cannot play the responsible part it should in the democratic control of science, technology, and their effects. Until the public changes, science will continue along its blindered way, thinking more of its theories and research than of their applications in the real world. Tudge shows clearly how genetic knowledge especially has developed, and he brings the persons involved and their contexts to life. He pilots readers through the highly involved modern use of genetics in plants, animals, and humans; he emphasizes that genes influence and limit but do not determine either actions or thoughts. Expectedly, Tudge also explores many of the ethical problems related to genetics. "The true role of science," he concludes, "is not to change the universe but more fully to appreciate it." William Beatty
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