Improving Nature? The science and ethics of genetic engineering

Little more than a decade ago the term 'genetic engineering' was hardly known outside research laboratories. By now, though, its use is widespread. Those in favour of genetic engineering - and those against it - tell us that it has the potential to change our lives perhaps more than any other scientific or technological advance. But what are the likely consequences of genetic engineering? Is it ethically acceptable? Should we be trying to improve on nature? The authors, a biologist and a moral philosopher, examine the implications of genetic engineering in every aspect of our lives. The underlying science is explained in a way easily understood by a general reader, and the moral and ethical considerations that arise are fully discussed. Throughout, the authors clarify the issues involved so that readers can make up their own minds about these controversial issues.

At first glance, this may appear to be one of those books that raise many questions but provide few answers. Biologist Reiss and moral philosopher Straughan have, however, written a clear, informative, and above all provocative work that should engage those interested in genetic engineering, whether directly or indirectly. They believe their main responsibility is to provide facts, survey attitudes, and present enough material so that each reader can make individual decisions about the issues. They provide the biology basic to genetic engineering and discuss the relevant moral, ethical, and religious concerns about it. Then they consider genetic engineering in microorganisms, plants, animals, and humans and, to flesh out some of the moral concerns, discuss several case histories in depth. Their final chapter (one of the book's best) deals with education--what it is and how it should be done. This valuable work should prove helpful to teachers and leaders of discussion groups as well as individual readers. William Beatty

The authors' intent in publishing this work was to make the complicated processes and ethical issues surrounding genetic engineering understandable to the nonbiologist. Biologist Reiss and moral philosopher Straughan have done an admirable job of explaining these concepts in a clear and provocative manner. Individual chapters are devoted to genetic engineering in microorganisms, plants, animals, and humans, with each chapter providing several case studies and a discussion of the ethical concerns associated with those techniques. Also included is a brief examination of theological concerns relating to this area, a topic not normally included in a popular science volume. While the lack of detail may frustrate serious researchers, generalists should find this an excellent introduction to the topic. Recommended for public libraries.?Tina Neville, Univ. of South Florida at St. Petersburg
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.