God, Science, and Designer Genes

A biologist and a Christian theologian examine the scientific and philosophical implications and potential impacts of genetic technologies.

God, Science, and Designer Genes: An Exploration of Emerging Technologies provides a unique approach to the central ethical dilemma in contemporary science, offering both an up-to-date account of the current state of genetic technologies and insightful discussions of the moral/theological questions these technologies raise.

Coauthored by professors of biology and theology, God, Science, and Designer Genes examines a range of from-the-headlines issues, including the relationship between science and religion, “designing” our children, stem-cell research, cloning, genetics and behavior, genetics and privacy, and using genetic technologies for social justice. Who should benefit—personally and financially—from DNA technology? Who might be harmed? How do we protect individual rights and guard against discrimination? How will embryo modification affect the identity of those so modified? God, Science, and Designer Genes gives readers an eloquent, thoughtful, and objective foundation for considering these and other questions about the potential conflict between scientific achievement, personal faith, and social responsibility.

• A series of chapters combining basic scientific discussions of DNA technologies with ethical discussions of the social issues they are raising
• Five hypothetical case studies that provide realistic contexts for exploring specific issues related to genetic technologies
• An extensive bibliography of current and significant books, journals and websites with regard to genetic technologies
• A comprehensive index