Human Genetics: Fabricating the Future

Robert Song considers some of the fundamental causal factors- attitudes and beliefs as well as scientific and commercial pressures- that have governed developments in human genetics, discussing them in relation to central ethical questions raised by Christian theology. Behind the development of technologies like genetic screening, cloning and "designer babies", he argues, are cultural aspirations to "perfection" and absolute choice. "In response to this there is a need for an alternative vision of society and the human good, one which is not driven by the hectoring necessities that generate the technological imperative." Robert Song serves on the faculty in Christian Ethics at the University of Durham, and previously taught for ten years at Canmer Hall, Durham. He is secretary of the Society fo the Study of Christian Ethics and chair of Epiphany Trust, a charity involved in service provision for people with disabilities in Britain and abroad.