Beyond Human?: Science and the Changing Face of Humanity

Recent scientific advances have made it possible to do the unthinkable—clone, design one's own babies, "genetically enhance" soldiers, and wipe out entire populations with a simple airborne chemical. Such technology means that "nature" no longer follows an inevitable course, and that our decisions have unprecedented power. This book introduces many of the most significant scientific advances of recent years including food modification; genetics and eugenics; modern medical technology; and transhumanism, or "improving" the species. Looking at the dehumanizing effects of technology, it asks us to think about what these things mean for us, arguing that new technology has developed so quickly that we haven't had time to consider all of its ethical implications, yet not to do so is to risk our own humanity.