Human Genetics Fabricating the Future

A continuing series offering a unique approach to vital issues in the arena of Christian ethics. The books in the series are lively introductory explorations of contemporary issues that not only explain the moral positions that have been adopted, but show how theological convictions shape these assessments. Each book invites readers to engage in their own process of moral deliberation informed by their Christian beliefs.Robert Song describes the attitudes, beliefs, and existential commitments, as well as the medical, scientific, and commercial pressures, which have governed developments in modern medical genetics.Ethics needs to be embodied, and that involves an understanding not only of principle, but also of context. In the case of genetics, a major part of that context is what has been called the technological imperative, the drive to mastery of nature which serves significantly to structure our beliefs and actions, whether we are aware of it or not, whether we like it or not, writes Song.The book highlights the following topics: -- Health, Medicine, and the New Genetics -- the Human Genome Project is set in the context of the Christian tradition's understanding of health and medicine.-- Genetic Enhancement and the New Eugenics -- looks at the moral and theological issues behind genetic engineering.-- Justice, Community, and Genetics -- discusses behavioral genetics, the use of genetic information by insurers, and gene patenting.-- Technological Inevitability and Alternative Futures -- What futures can we imagine for genetic technology?