The rapid progress in biological and biomedical sciences in the last twenty years has brought with it an extensive development of the methods of molecular genetics. This has had impacts on society in many fields. Practical applications in medicine, pharmacology, agriculture, food design and biotechnology are firmly established and will grow enormously in the years to come. The scientific views of DNA and genes which underpin these applications are challenging our fundamental concepts of life, nature, society and humanity. It is beyond doubt that these developments need to be evaluated and reflected upon, both from a scientific and philosophical point of view, as well as from a cultural and social perspective.
This book provides a wide range of discussions about the effects of DNA thinking in science and society, in biology and in relation to what it is to be human. Insights are provided into trans-disciplinary approaches and divergent views are compared. The reports on the plenary discussions and the many workshops show progress towards a power-free dialogue, i.e. an exchange of thoughts, free of economic and political pressure.
The viewpoints of a variety of specialists, including scientists (microbiologists, molecular geneticists and clinical researchers), clinicians, philosophers and members of NGOs are presented. The contents will be of particular interest to those involved in genetic engineering, from students to policy makers, who face the challenge of the new technology in their work and who are looking for a substantial expansion and complementation of their basis for judgement forming.