Review by Choice Review
A review of the status of techniques involved in assisting reproduction in mammals, particularly humans, and a discussion of the ethical implications of this work. The orientation is both scientific and philosophical. Topics considered are embryonic development, when life begins, male and female infertility, in vitro fertilization, embryo transfer, ectogenesis, genetic engineering, and the curing of genetic diseases. These are very large topics in scientific research today and obviously they cannot be covered adequately in one book. The value of Austin's work is that it provides an introduction to the key literature of each topic so that the interested reader can find the information desired. The list of 199 references is certainly not complete, but provides a first step to more in-depth study. In addition, some references that are appropriate for the general reader are indicated. This book does not provide enough information on any one topic to be useful by itself, but it is valuable as a guide. Austin is an internationally recognized embryologist who has specialized in the field of fertilization for many years. However, his comments on the morality of manipulating human reproduction are as pertinent as his scientific observations. Recommended for lower-division undergraduates. -T. C. Mayer, Rider College
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
