Includes reading group guide, a conversation with the author, and a political engagement guide Includes bibliographical references and index.
Contents:
Introduction: Entering the genetic age -- Where Darwin meets Mendel -- Climbing the complexity ladder -- Decoding identity -- The end of sex -- Divine sparks and pixie dust -- Rebuilding the living world -- Stealing immortality from the gods -- The ethics of engineering ourselves -- We contain multitudes -- The arms race of the human race -- The future of humanity
Summary:
"At the dawn of the genetics revolution, DNA is becoming as readable, writable, and hackable as our information technology. But as humanity starts retooling our own genetic code, the choices we make today will be the difference between realizing breathtaking advances in human well-being and descending into a dangerous and potentially deadly genetic arms race. From a leading technology futurist and geopolitical expert comes a groundbreaking exploration of the many ways genetic engineering is shaking the core foundations of our lives--sex, war, love, and death. Enter the laboratories where scientists are turning science fiction into reality. Look toward a future where our deepest beliefs, morals, religions, and politics are challenged like never before and the very essence of what it means to be human is at play. As our technology races forward, it's essential for everyone to learn how our species will re-create all of life, including ourselves. Passionate, provocative, and highly illuminating, Hacking Darwin is a guide to a future that has already begun"--Back cover
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.