Genes: A Philosophical Inquiry (Paperback)

~ (Author) "Contemporary society differs from previous periods in part by the extent to which the printed word has been displaced by the visual image..." (more)
Key Phrases: reverse engineering theory, designer babies, irreducible complexity, The Origin of Species, United States, Richard Dawkins (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review

"A provocative and always interesting addition to the literature on genetics." -- Arlene Judith Klotzko, Writer in Residence, Science Museum

... an excellent, readable and lively 'take' from the viewpoint of a moral philosopher ... I think Graham's book will greatly help to clarify the minds of many people who are confused by the media's approach, especially television, that often presents a kaleidoscope of different opinions.
–Dr. David Galton, author of In Our Own Image

... an excellent, readable and lively take from the viewpoint of a moral philosopher ... I think Grahams book will greatly help to clarify the minds of many people who are confused by the medias approach, especially television, that often presents a kaleidoscope of different opinions.
–Dr. David Galton, author of In Our Own Image

...clear-headed, intricate and seductive arguments. Scientists and laypersons alike will find something within them to disagree with. But I'm equally sure that they'll be forced to reassess either some of their faith in, or fear of, genetic science.
–Independent on Sunday

...clear-headed, intricate and seductive arguments. Scientists and laypersons alike will find something within them to disagree with. But Im equally sure that theyll be forced to reassess either some of their faith in, or fear of, genetic science.
–Independent on Sunday

A provocative and always interesting addition to the literature on genetics.
–Arlene Judith Klotzko, Writer in Residence, Science Museum

Clear and level-headed . . . he has a lot of interesting and provocative things to say about both genetic science and genetic engineering. In particular, he has provided as clear and compelling an account of what is meant by playing God, and what is wrong with playing God, as I have seen.
–Stephen Clark, University of Liverpool

Product Description

"It's all in the genes." Is this true, and if so, what is all in the genes? Genes: A Philosophical Inquiry is a crystal clear and highly informative guide to a debate none of us can afford to ignore.

Beginning with a much-needed overview of the relationship between science and technology, Gordon Graham lucidly explains and assesses the most important and controversial aspects of the genes debate: Darwinian theory and its critics, the idea of the "selfish" gene, evolutionary psychology, memes, genetic screening and modification, including the risks of cloning and "designer" babies.

The author considers areas often left out of the genes debate, such as the environmental risks of genetic engineering and how we should think about genes in the wider context of debates on science, knowledge and religion. Gordon Graham asks whether genetic engineering might be introducing God back into the debate and whether the risks of a brave new genetic world outweigh the potential benefits.

Essential reading for anyone interested in science, technology, and philosophy, Genes: A Philosophical Inquiry is ideal for those wanting to find out more about the ethical implications of genetics and the future of biotechnology.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Routledge; 1 edition (October 11, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 041525258X
• ISBN-13: 978-0415252584
• Product Dimensions: 7.7 x 4.7 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: No customer reviews yet. Be the first.
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #3,011,345 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)