Books.org participates in affiliate programs including Bookshop.org and the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you.
Overview
Stem cell research, genetically modified crops, animals developed with personalized human organs for transplantation, and other previously inconceivable biotech applications could increase the quality of all human lives and maximize the health of the biosphere. But ironically, as the science becomes more precise and transparent, it also becomes more contentious. In Challenging Nature, Silver argues that although they seem to have little in common, Christian fundamentalists opposed to embryo research and New Age organic food devotees are both driven by a deeply rooted fear that biotechnology—in some guise—challenges the sovereignty of a higher or deeper transcendent authority. In the short term, Silver writes, Eastern spiritual traditions will give Asian countries a research advantage. But over the millennia, human nature may have the potential to remake Mother Nature in the image of an idealized world.
Synopsis
Stem cell research, genetically modified crops, animals developed with personalized human organs for transplantation, and other previously inconceivable biotech applications could increase the quality of all human lives and maximize the health of the biosphere. But ironically, as the science becomes more precise and transparent, it also becomes more contentious. In Challenging Nature, Silver argues that although they seem to have little in common, Christian fundamentalists opposed to embryo research and New Age organic food devotees are both driven by a deeply rooted fear that biotechnology—in some guise—challenges the sovereignty of a higher or deeper transcendent authority. In the short term, Silver writes, Eastern spiritual traditions will give Asian countries a research advantage. But over the millennia, human nature may have the potential to remake Mother Nature in the image of an idealized world.
New England Journal of Medicine
“A clearly written, trenchant defense of biotechnology...wise, realistic...a well-crafted argument.”
Editorials
New England Journal of Medicine
"A clearly written, trenchant defense of biotechnology...wise, realistic...a well-crafted argument."Nicholas Wade
"A valuable exposition of the rationalist’s view of the world...He argues eloquently...sound of a battle that will continue.""This one will make you think, perhaps in realms you’ve avoided. It’s probably worth the effort."
"Lucid and sensible...definitely worth reading and will likely challenge your preconceived notions of what biotechnology is and offers."
"Lucid and sensible...definitely worth reading and will likely challenge your preconceived notions of what biotechnology is and offers."
“A clearly written, trenchant defense of biotechnology...wise, realistic...a well-crafted argument.”