Humankind is currently witnessing an unprecedented revolution in the science of genetics but struggling with the moral dilemmas that these advances have created. With the Human Genome Project, gene therapy, and evidence that genes are directly linked to homosexuality, intelligence, and obesity, we see that genetic discoveries may have the power to change the course of human life. Critics condemn genetic technology as "playing God," while optimists promise genetic cures for every disease, an enhanced human nature, or the emancipation of women through technology. Both camps agree that we need to develop a radically new ethics for this era. The Perfect Baby is a clarion call for a more realistic discussion of biotechnology. McGee challenges the common assumption that we are essentially determined by a genetic blueprint. He denies the necessity of a new "Genethics," arguing that the wisdom we need can be found in the everyday experience of parents. The Perfect Baby dramatically alters the terms of the moral debate for parents, policymakers, scientists, philosophers, theologians, and physicians.
Glenn McGee is assistant professor of bioethics at the University of Pennsylvania and senior fellow in health economics at the Leonard Institute of the Wharton School.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 The Landscape of Genetic Technology Chapter 2 The Magic Answer? Hopes for Genetic Engineering Chapter 3 Debunking the Myths Chapter 4 Biology, Culture, and Methodical Social Change: A Pragmatic Approach to Genetics Chapter 5 Genetic Approaches to Family and Public Health Chapter 6 The Not-so-Deadly Sins of Genetic Enhancement
