Human Cloning in the Media: From Science Fiction to Science Practice (Genetics and Society)

This book examines the making of human cloning as an imaginary practice and scientific fact. It explores the controversies surrounding both ‘therapeutic cloning’ for stem cell research and ‘reproductive’ cloning. The authors analyse the cultural production of cloning, how practices and representations play out in the global arena, and its transformation from science fiction to science practice. Case studies are used to illustrate key fore grounded issues:

• the image of the scientist, scientific expertise and institutions
• the governance of science
• the representation of women’s bodies as the subjects and objects of biotechnology
• the constitution of publics, both as objects of media debate, and as their intended audience.

Drawing together the Sociology of Scientific Knowledge, with insights from media and cultural studies, this book offers a timely contribution to debates about the public communication of science and the status of scientific truth. This book will be a valuable companion to students on undergraduate courses in media studies, science communication, cultural studies, science and technology studies and sociology.

Joan Haran is a Research Associate in the ESRC Centre for Economic and Social Aspects of Genomics (CESAGen), at Cardiff University.

Jenny Kitzinger is Professor of Media and Communication Research at Cardiff University.

Maureen McNeil is Professor of Women's Studies and Cultural Studies at Lancaster University.

Kate O’Riordan is Lecturer in Media and Film Studies at the University of Sussex.