Review by Choice Review
In a provocative exploration of the nature of "humanness," Gaylin argues that we have a unique biological inheritance with an autonomy that allows us to reshape ourselves and an imagination that creates a distinct world through technology, aesthetics, and symbolic perception. The wide range of human feelings, especially those of shame, guilt, and pride, seen with a positive self-image, has no counterpart in other animals. Only humans feel guilt at failing their own ideals, and only human sexuality combines the endocrine with imagination, uniquely connected to romance and commitment. The story of Pinocchio is seen as a parable of growth from narcissistic infancy to caring, loving adulthood. Gaylin asserts that the unique biological fact of humanness is a prolonged period of helplessness, and the primary lesson of infancy is that survival depends on the beneficience of others. This dependence leads to his grave concern for our present neglect of child care issues, including that of teenage pregnancy. Work, says Gaylin, is an essential human trait, and is to be distinguished from mere labor; our consumer society is severely faulted for trivalizing work and robbing it of all joy. Finally, Gaylin explores mature love, which he believes to be the ultimate expression of humanity, and he argues that, today, love will never be discovered because commitment is lacking and sex is seen to be everything. Gaylin calls us to action on behalf of our species so that more of us, like Pinocchio, may grow to caring, giving creatures of "good heart." A must book for readers at all levels concerned about the present human condition. -J. A. Kegley, California State University, Bakersfield
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Booklist Review
In a strong rebuttal to current theories of animal rights, Gaylin asserts the primacy of human beings over all other life on Earth. A leading psychiatrist and ethicist, he fears the consequences of a diminished sense of our species' uniqueness. The classic story of Pinocchio--enriched with analogies drawn from biology, anthropology, religion, and psychology--here serves as a parable illustrating the process through which humans make themselves the most wonderful, yet distinctively unnatural, of creatures. In morality, imagination, intelligence, and family life, humans demonstrate godlike powers not found even in our highest primate relatives. Recent developments in biotechnology represent the most remarkable evidence that a great gulf separates humankind from the animal kingdom. Gaylin defends biotechnology against its critics, yet he urges prudence and restraint in its development. Engaging and provocative, this book will stir thought and controversy. Notes; to be indexed. --Bryce Christensen
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Library Journal Review
Gaylin, a psychiatrist and co-founder of The Hastings Center, which examines medical ethics and bioethics, here uses two well-known stories to explore the ramifications of being consciously human. The biblical progenitors of our species, Adam and Eve, are shown to have displayed the instincts that make us different from other creatures. Collodi's tale of the wooden puppet is used to illustrate how the inchoate human of infancy develops, through experience, into the mature human being. Though these metaphors are trenchant, the writing is not focused enough to hold the reader's attention. Informed general readers may want to consider Gaylin's premise: the book seems to be a starting point rather than a completed statement.--Francisca Goldsmith, Berkeley P.L., Cal. (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Thoughtful arguments in favor of the human race's potential for positive self-realization, by the author of Passionate Attachments (1987), Rediscovering Love (1986), etc. The best thing that ever happened to Adam, Gaylin suggests, was taking a bite out of that forbidden apple, thus giving humankind the unique opportunity to refashion itself in the image of God or the devil, according to its individual will. Better that than the dull alternative of life in Paradise, where the absence of strife leaves little opportunity for growth or even the satisfaction inherent in overcoming great odds. As in the humble tale of Pinocchio, heartbreak and suffering temper the human soul, Gaylin points out as makes a case for optimism regarding humankind's ongoing struggle with its own imperfections. Though he admits that our unique abilities may lead to the destruction of life on this planet, they also provide the possibility that that which is best in us--our imagination and creativity--will be used to forge entirely new and better worlds instead. Denying the perceived threats of robotics and biotechnology that many claim rob us of our sense of uniqueness, Gaylin suggests that both serve instead to remind us that the joy we experience in the act of creation, in love, in sex, and in productive work are ours alone, and it is this joy that makes us truly human. Ever an embryo, full of potential, humanity remains suspended between heaven and hell. Gaylin concludes with a vote of confidence in its future. Generally convincing. Copyright ©Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
Review by Booklist Review
Review by Library Journal Review
Review by Kirkus Book Review
