- Available now
- New eBook additions
- New kids additions
- New teen additions
- Most popular
- Try something different
- See all
- Available now
- New audiobook additions
- New kids additions
- New teen additions
- Most popular
- Try something different
- See all
Inside the Global Race to Genetically Modify Humans
July 27, 2020
Anthropology professor Kirksey (Emergent Ecologies) explores the social impact gene editing in this unfortunately lackluster treatise. He begins with controversial Chinese scientist Jiankui He, who, in 2018, used CRISPR technology to alter two human embryos’ DNA, and then looks into the field’s ethical questions. These include it being too expensive for more than a small global elite to access, and the prospect of genetic traits being eliminated from embryos for spurious as well as valid reasons. To illustrate these concerns, Kirksey introduces intriguing characters, including a DIYer who tried to cure himself of HIV and “disrupt the business model of big biotech companies” he sees as contributing to gene therapy’s high costs, and an Indonesian artist who created a CRISPR-inspired art installation to investigate the uncertain “place for brown and Black babies” in a color-conscious world where fetus skin color could be changed at will. However, Kirksey’s discussions of the affordability problem yield no convincing solutions, and he has a habit of repeatedly refers to one person or another as a “white guy,” striking an odd note. Those looking for an in-depth analysis of the possibilities and dilemmas of gene editing will be disappointed.
Availability can change throughout the month based on the library's budget. You can still place a hold on the title, and your hold will be automatically filled as soon as the title is available again.
The OverDrive Read format of this ebook has professional narration that plays while you read in your browser. Learn more here.
Your session has expired. Please sign in again so you can continue to borrow titles and access your Loans, Wish list, and Holds pages.
If you're still having trouble, follow these steps to sign in.
Add a library card to your account to borrow titles, place holds, and add titles to your wish list.
Have a card? Add it now to start borrowing from the collection.
The library card you previously added can't be used to complete this action. Please add your card again, or add a different card. If you receive an error message, please contact your library for help.